Ancient Stadium & Odeon Monte Smith
Explore a remarkably preserved Hellenistic stadium and Odeon on Monte Smith Hill, offering a free, uncrowded journey into ancient Rhodes' athletic and...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Ancient Stadium & Odeon Monte Smith
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a remarkably preserved Hellenistic stadium and Odeon on Monte Smith Hill, offering a free, uncrowded journey into ancient Rhodes' athletic and cultural past.
"It's free to enter the complex to see the ruins. Very beautiful and highly recommend checking out this complex of ruins."
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be walking on uneven ancient stones and slopes. Prioritize comfort for exploring the stadium and odeon.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially during warmer months, the sun can be intense. Stay hydrated while you explore the historical site.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hellenistic Stadium
Monte Smith Hill
Walk the track of this ancient stadium, imagining the roar of the crowds and the thrill of athletic competition.
Odeon Ruins
Monte Smith Hill
Explore the remnants of this ancient open-air theater, once a venue for musical and equestrian events.
Panoramic Island Views
Monte Smith Hill
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Rhodes town and the Aegean Sea from this elevated historical site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History (and the Sun!)
Free Entry, Priceless Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be walking on uneven ancient stones and slopes. Prioritize comfort for exploring the stadium and odeon.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially during warmer months, the sun can be intense. Stay hydrated while you explore the historical site.
🏛️ Free Entry, Amazing Value
Enjoy this significant historical site without any admission fee. A true gem for history lovers!
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views from Monte Smith are stunning. Don't forget your camera for memorable shots.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be walking on uneven ancient stones and slopes. Prioritize comfort for exploring the stadium and odeon.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially during warmer months, the sun can be intense. Stay hydrated while you explore the historical site.
🏛️ Free Entry, Amazing Value
Enjoy this significant historical site without any admission fee. A true gem for history lovers!
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views from Monte Smith are stunning. Don't forget your camera for memorable shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Ancient Stadium and Odeon Monte Smith for its impressive historical significance and the incredible bonus of free entry. Many appreciate the opportunity to explore ancient ruins without the usual crowds, enjoying the panoramic views and the chance to imagine life in antiquity. Some note that parts may be under restoration, but the overall experience is highly positive.
"It's a Hellenistic-era stadium dating back to the 3rd or 2nd century BC. Though it was restored by the Italians in the 20th century, and the current stadium is just a small part of it. It has around 210 meters long and 35 meters wide, with a curved end and official seating, which can be seen at the far end. The original used to be much larger than this, as the informative panel at the site says. It was used for sporting events, but also hosted musical and equestrian competitions, including those of the Haleion Games in honor of the sun god Helios.
The best thing about it, apart from the acropolis having free entrance, is that it's not crowded."
Lucian Marin
"Great place to visit when in Rhodes if you’re a history fan or if you’re looking my for a nice place to walk. Great views and a lot of interesting information to see."
krzysztof magos
"Still cannot believe it’s free to enter the complex to see the ruins. Very beautiful and highly recommend checking out this complex of ruins. Some of it is under construction again but can still see it all, out of this world and well maintained!"
Ellie B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ancient Stadium and Odeon Monte Smith are located on Monte Smith Hill, overlooking Rhodes town. You can reach it by car, taxi, or a pleasant walk from the city center. Many visitors opt for a leisurely stroll up the hill, enjoying the scenery along the way.
Yes, there is usually parking available near the Ancient Stadium and Odeon complex, though it can get busy during peak tourist season. Consider arriving earlier in the day to secure a spot.
Absolutely! It's a scenic walk of about 20-30 minutes from the edge of the Old Town. The path is generally well-maintained, offering lovely views as you ascend.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The best part? Entry to the Ancient Stadium and Odeon Monte Smith is completely free! This makes it an incredibly accessible historical attraction for all visitors.
The site is generally accessible during daylight hours. As it's an open-air archaeological site, there are no strict opening or closing times, but it's best to visit when there's ample natural light.
No advance booking is necessary as the site is free to enter. You can visit at your leisure without any ticketing requirements.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the well-preserved Hellenistic-era stadium, including the track and seating areas, and the ruins of the ancient Odeon, which hosted performances. Informative panels provide historical context.
Yes, the site is generally well-maintained, with some areas undergoing restoration. Visitors can still see most of the original Roman parts and the restored terraces.
While there aren't official guided tours readily available on-site, the informative panels offer good insights. You can also find many local guides in Rhodes town who can arrange a visit.
The terrain can be uneven and involves slopes, which might be challenging for those with significant mobility issues. However, the main stadium area is relatively accessible.
Walk the length of the track, sit on the ancient benches, and imagine the historical events that took place here. The scale of the stadium is impressive.
📸 📸 Photography
The stadium itself, the Odeon ruins, and the panoramic views of Rhodes town and the sea are prime photo spots. The interplay of ancient stone with the blue sky is particularly photogenic.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. However, midday provides clear views and good light for capturing the scale of the ruins.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on-site. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for everyone. The panoramic views are also a great reward for little legs that make the climb up Monte Smith Hill.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk from Rhodes Old Town to save on transportation. Pack your own water and snacks to keep costs down. The stunning views are also a free bonus!
🚶♀️ History Enthusiasts
Take your time to appreciate the scale of the stadium and the remnants of the Odeon. The fact that it's free to enter and less crowded than other major sites allows for a more personal and in-depth exploration of this fascinating historical complex.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Ancient Athletics
Beyond just athletic events, the stadium and its surrounding complex, including the Odeon, also hosted musical and equestrian competitions. The Haleion Games, held in honor of the sun god Helios, were a notable event here. The site offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past and understand the multifaceted role of such venues in ancient Greek society.
Tip from travelers: Many visitors enjoy running a lap on the track to get a more immersive experience. The sheer scale and preservation of the stadium make it a standout historical site, especially given its free admission.
The Odeon: A Stage for Culture
While the stadium was primarily for sports, the Odeon served a more artistic and cultural purpose. Exploring its seating tiers and stage area allows for a moment of quiet contemplation about the performances and gatherings that once took place here. It’s a space that invites imagination, helping you picture the vibrant life of the ancient city.
Community insight: Some parts of the Odeon might be under restoration, but the overall experience remains captivating. The combination of the stadium and Odeon provides a comprehensive look at the recreational and cultural life of ancient inhabitants.
Monte Smith Hill: Views and Serenity
Visitors often highlight the tranquility of the area, especially compared to more crowded tourist attractions. It's an ideal location for a leisurely stroll, a moment of reflection, or simply to enjoy the natural beauty of the island. The combination of historical significance and breathtaking scenery makes Monte Smith a must-visit.
Traveler tip: Bring a picnic or some snacks to enjoy while taking in the views. The gentle sea breeze and the expansive vistas create a truly memorable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit