Ancient Kamiros

Located on the northwest coast of Rhodes, the ancient city of Kamiros

is one of the island’s most important archaeological sites and offers visitors a remarkable journey into the world of ancient Greece. Together with Lindos and Ialyssos, Kamiros was one of the three powerful city-states of ancient Rhodes, flourishing from the 6th century BC.

Built amphitheatrically on a hillside with stunning sea views, Kamiros was carefully planned with an advanced urban design for its time. The city featured wide streets, public squares, temples, houses with courtyards, and an impressive water supply system that collected and distributed rainwater throughout the settlement.

Unlike other ancient cities focused on military power, Kamiros was mainly a prosperous agricultural and trading center. The inhabitants lived peacefully, benefiting from fertile land and maritime commerce across the Aegean Sea. The city reached its peak during the Hellenistic period before gradually declining after a series of earthquakes, especially the devastating earthquake of 226 BC.

Today, visitors can walk through the remains of homes, stoas, cisterns, and temples while imagining daily life in this once-thriving community. One of the most remarkable monuments is the Doric fountain house, an important part of the city’s sophisticated water management system.

Often referred to as the “Pompeii of Greece” because of its well-preserved layout, Ancient Kamiros offers a unique glimpse into ancient urban life and remains one of the most captivating historical sites on the island of Rhodes.