Rhodes: Archaeological Site of Filerimos Opens to the Public

Photo source: Culture Ministry.

The archaeological site of  Filerimos on Rhodes recently reopened to the public, following a 1,350,000 euro restoration that included accessibility and infrastructure upgrades.

The hill of Filerimos, which covers an area of 2,500 decares of dense forest, offers unique views of Rhodes’ north-western coast and hinterland. It is an environmental park which holds immense archaeological and historical value, housing ancient and early Christian structures, ruins of a Byzantine castle, a medieval church, an Italian monastery, and the 15th-century church of St. George of Hostos.

In recent years, Filerimos has become a popular tourist destination, drawing an increasing number of visitors.

Dodecanese Governor George Hatzimarkos and Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni during the reopening event for the archaeological site of Filerimos. Photo source: Culture Ministry.

During the site’s reopening event, Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni emphasized the crucial role of preserving cultural heritage for local communities and regional development.

“The Dodecanese currently is running one of its largest cultural development programs, with 40 projects expected to be completed by 2027,” she revealed.

Photo source: Culture Ministry.

Restoration works at Filerimos have modernized the Byzantine castle’s existing structures and introduced new exhibition spaces. The church of St. George of Hostos, serving as a burial chapel for a Frankish family, is also now open to visitors. The site now boasts accessible ramps, a corridor for emergency vehicles, and tour-guide material for visually impaired visitors. A digital application provides information to the public, and improved infrastructure safeguards the site.

According to the Culture Ministry, the reopening of the archaeological site of Filerimos signifies a milestone in preserving Greece’s cultural heritage and making it accessible to all, promising to educate and inspire future generations.

The Filerimos restoration project was funded by the  South Aegean Regional Development Program – NSRF 2014-2020 and supervised by the Dodecanese Ephorate of Antiquities.