Day 9 – Wednesday: September 23: Rhodes: Lindos & Old City
Today we spent the entire day on the Island of Rhodes. Wow, what a great day and a beautiful island! During last night, we sailed to the side of the island where in ancient times was a Colossus statue that stood 110 feet tall (it was built in 304 BC over a 12 year period). The weather was amazing again, with full sun, and highs around 80. Following breakfast, we gathered on the ship at 8:30 a.m. for a time of Scripture. We read from Acts 20 and 21 as we began the day.
Lindos
Following our gathering and debriefing, we left the ship and boarded our “rented” bus to Lindos. Located on the other side of the island, it took about 50 minute to get there. Once we arrived, we climbed to the top of the impressive Acropolis of Lindos. The Temple of Athena – Lindia (as it is called) was here among other ruins from the Greek and Roman period. The view from the top of the acropolis was stunning in all directions! The “blue” of the water was stunning to behold! After see the acropolis, some walked along the cliff line well below while others enjoyed gyros and ice cream.
Paul stopped at Rhodes (and perhaps this side of the island, although as can’t be sure) on his way back to Jerusalem at the end of his 3rd journey (see Acts 21). He also would have sailed past Rhodes at the start of his voyage to Rome.
“Rhodes is such a beautiful island! We bussed over to the other side and Lindos did not disappoint! The acropolis of Lindos and the views we enjoyed from there were stunning! It was a fun excursion on our own! We came back and enjoyed the Old City of Rhodes as well!”
Rhodes Port/Harbor
We drove back to the harbor (where the Colossus was), arriving about 3 p.m. Today in this area of the harbor there is a large enclosed walled city (three miles in total distance!). This 14-15th century AD castle was built by the Knights of St. John. Some in our group explored the “old city” on their own while others headed back to the ship. Some saw where the famous 110-foot high Colossal of Rhodes supposedly stood! We all boarded back on the ship by 5:30. We will sail to Crete during the night and arrive there tomorrow morning.
PS. Tonight at 8:30 (following dinner) we plan to enjoy an optional gathering of karaoke singing. It should be really fun!
Day 10 – Thursday, September 24: Crete & Santorini
