Mosque of Suleiman

Mosque of Suleiman or Suleymaniye Mosque. It was built in 1522 by Sultan Suleiman I, thus sealing his victory for the conquest of the island. Built on the foundations of an old church, it was the first mosque built in the city of Rhodes after its siege. It dominates the highest point of Socratous Street in the Medieval city and is believed to have been almost entirely reconstructed in 1808. In fact, materials from knightly buildings and churches were used.
A particularly majestic mosque with three square spaces. The largest and tallest reaches 15 meters. Covered with domes where between the central and western dome rises a minaret 34.50 meters high with two balconies. Of particular artistic value are the plaster reliefs and decorations above the windows and doors. Made by hand and without the use of molds.
The great earthquakes and the ravages of time did not leave the majestic mosque unaffected. Reconstructions and reinforcement work began in 1863. They continued during the Italian occupation in 1928 and 1956-1957 after the collapse of part of the earthquakes. From time to time, restoration works were carried out, both outside and inside the mosque. In 2005, with special attention and the hard work of Rhodian artisans such as Mr. Michalis Toumaras and his team, the restoration works were completed. As a result, in 2006 received an honorary award from Europa Nostra.
The Mosque of Suleiman is considered one of the most beautiful monuments of the Ottoman period in Europe. Today, the Mosque of Suleiman is open to the public twice a week during the summer season and the entrance is free of charge.