Hippocrates Square

Hippocrates Square is the pulsing heart of Rhodes Old Town and the largest and liveliest square in the historic Burgo district. It is not just a geographical center but a place with a rich history, which locals still unofficially call the "Burnt Square." This name is a tribute to the memory of the devastating fire that occurred here in 1924, adding a layer of historical depth to this popular spot and recalling the past of this corner of Greece.

The central adornment of Hippocrates Square is undoubtedly the famous Sindrivani Fountain (also known as Sintrivani). This elegant fountain, featuring a harmonious blend of Byzantine and Ottoman styles, consistently catches the eye of all visitors. It consists of a circular stone basin with a miniature tower rising from the center, skillfully decorated with blue ceramics. A small owl figure crowns the structure, and refreshing jets of water pour from metal spouts extending from the tower, creating a pleasant coolness on hot days.

Hippocrates Square plays an important role in the life of the Old Town, serving not only as a popular meeting and resting spot but also as a logical continuation of Sokratous Street—Rhodes' main shopping artery. While strolling along this busy street, full of souvenir shops, boutiques, and cozy cafes, you will inevitably find yourself in the square. Here, you can relax by the fountain, enjoy the unique atmosphere, and watch the bustling city life. It is a place where history meets modern life, creating a unique charm.

Hippocrates Square is an open public space in the heart of Rhodes, so it does not have specific contact details. If you need tourist information regarding the square or other city attractions, you can contact local tourist information centers or the Rhodes administration. The square itself is easily accessible on foot from most parts of the Old Town.

A walk through Rhodes Old Town will surely lead you to Hippocrates Square—a lively spot where you can immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this ancient corner of Greece. One of the main things to do here is, of course, a leisurely break in one of the many casual cafes. Take a seat, order a cup of aromatic Greek coffee or a refreshing drink, and enjoy the taste of traditional local dishes while watching the life buzzing around you.

The centerpiece of the square is the famous Sindrivani Fountain, where tourists love to take photos. Don't miss the chance to snap a few pictures for memory! Near the fountain are other interesting sites: look out for the Chadrevan Mosque and the impressive historical building of the Castellania (Palace of the Castellan). Exploring the architectural features of these buildings will allow you to dive deeper into the rich history of Rhodes.

Hippocrates Square is not only a place for rest and contemplation but also an excellent starting point for further exploration of the Old Town. From here, it is easy to reach iconic sites such as the Rhodes Fortress, the former residence of the Grand Masters of the Order of St. John. Walking through the narrow streets branching off the square, you will discover even more charming corners and historical treasures of this amazing city.

Hippocrates Square is nestled in the heart of Rhodes Old Town, which is primarily a pedestrian zone. To reach this historic site, you will need to enter the Old Town through one of its many gates. Once inside, follow the signs leading to the center of the Burgo district, or head toward Sokratous Street—one of the main arteries of the Old Town, which leads directly to the square.

If you are arriving on the island of Rhodes by plane, you can take a taxi or a public bus from Diagoras International Airport to Rhodes Town. A taxi ride takes about 20-30 minutes, while buses run regularly and offer a more budget-friendly option. From the bus station in Rhodes, as well as from the main port, the Old Town and Hippocrates Square are within easy walking distance, allowing you to enjoy the atmosphere of the ancient streets.

Since the Old Town is mostly pedestrian-only, direct access to the square by car or taxi may be difficult or impossible. It is best to leave your vehicle outside the fortress walls and continue on foot. Strolling through the narrow cobbled streets is an experience in itself and will help you better feel the spirit of this unique place.

Hippocrates Square is more than just a tourist spot in Rhodes; it is a true witness to the island's centuries-old history. Its past is inextricably linked with the fate of Rhodes itself. Among locals, the square bears an informal but very symbolic name: the "Burnt Square." This somber nickname recalls the devastating fire of 1924, which radically changed the appearance of this part of the Old Town, leaving a deep mark on its history and the memory of its residents.

The history of Rhodes Town dates back to ancient times. Founded in 408 BC, the city was originally built according to the Hippodamian system, known for its regular and clear street planning. Throughout its long history, the island and the city changed hands many times: it was occupied by the Persians, then liberated by the Athenians in 478 BC, recaptured by the Persians in 340 BC, and finally liberated following the campaign of Alexander the Great. These events left their mark on the island's culture and architecture.

Located in the heart of Rhodes Old Town, Hippocrates Square and its surroundings preserve traces of various eras. Here, you can see Byzantine and Ottoman influences, particularly noticeable in the architectural details of buildings like the Castellania and the famous Sindrivani Fountain, which graces the center of the square. This fountain is one of the square's landmarks and a striking example of the blending of cultural traditions characteristic of Rhodes.

To get to know Hippocrates Square in Rhodes, you will likely need 30 to 60 minutes. This will be enough time to see the fountain, admire the surrounding architecture, and feel the atmosphere of this historic site. The square itself is not very large, but it is packed with details and is a popular spot for photos.

However, it is worth considering that Hippocrates Square is the heart of Rhodes Old Town, and many other interesting sites are concentrated around it. If you plan to do more than just a quick glance and want to explore nearby attractions like the Chadrevan Mosque or the Castellania Palace, it is better to set aside 2-3 hours. This approach will allow you to leisurely stroll through the narrow streets, peek into souvenir shops, and fully enjoy the historic center.

Hippocrates Square in Rhodes is an open-air public space, making it accessible to visit 24/7, year-round. You don't need to book tickets or make an appointment in advance to walk through it and enjoy its atmosphere.

However, it is worth noting that cafes, restaurants, shops, and other establishments around the square operate on their own schedules. Typically, they are open during the day and evening, but for precise information on a specific place's working hours, it is recommended to check on-site or on their official websites.

Arriving at Hippocrates Square, you find yourself in the very heart of historical Rhodes, but the adventure doesn't end there! Exploring the surrounding area will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this amazing city, discover hidden gems, and get a more complete picture of its rich past and present. Just steps away from the square, other iconic sites await, each telling its own unique story.

A stroll through the nearby streets will enrich your experience and let you see Rhodes from different perspectives. You can easily reach many interesting sites without spending much time traveling, which is especially valuable if your time is limited.