Our Lady of the Burgh
A hauntingly beautiful 14th-century Gothic church ruin in Rhodes, offering a peaceful glimpse into medieval history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Our Lady of the Burgh
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hauntingly beautiful 14th-century Gothic church ruin in Rhodes, offering a peaceful glimpse into medieval history.
"A historic gem in Rhodes! The architecture is stunning, and the ruins have a peaceful atmosphere."
🤫 Respect the Silence
Keep voices low inside the ruins; it's a place for quiet reflection, not loud conversations.
📸 Photographer's Dream
The atmospheric ruins are a favorite for photographers seeking unique shots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gothic Architecture Ruins
Eastern part of the medieval quarter
Evocative stone shell of a 14th-century Gothic church with vaulted ceilings and pointed arches.
Peaceful Reflection Spot
Interior of the church
A quiet sanctuary amidst the bustling old town, perfect for contemplation and photography.
Historical Context Plaques
Outside wall
Educational boards and a plaque detailing the church's history as a spiritual center for Latin residents.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Atmosphere
Location & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Respect the Silence
Keep voices low inside the ruins; it's a place for quiet reflection, not loud conversations.
📸 Photographer's Dream
The atmospheric ruins are a favorite for photographers seeking unique shots.
🚶 Easy Walk from Port
Conveniently located for cruise ship passengers, just a short stroll to reach the site.
🆓 Free Admission
Enjoy this historic site without any entry fee.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Respect the Silence
Keep voices low inside the ruins; it's a place for quiet reflection, not loud conversations.
📸 Photographer's Dream
The atmospheric ruins are a favorite for photographers seeking unique shots.
🚶 Easy Walk from Port
Conveniently located for cruise ship passengers, just a short stroll to reach the site.
🆓 Free Admission
Enjoy this historic site without any entry fee.
🧐 Read the Boards
Educational boards outside provide valuable historical context.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Our Lady of the Burgh for its well-preserved ruins and peaceful atmosphere, offering a beautiful glimpse into medieval history. It's appreciated for being free to enter and easily accessible, especially for cruise ship passengers. Some note that it can get crowded, and a few have observed a lack of enforcement regarding noise levels within the ruins.
"This church is a well preserved ruin. There is no charge to enter. It is quite beautiful! It was very clean and obviously well cared for. There was a guard as you entered. On the outside wall there is a plaque and a couple of educational boards. This is located on the outskirts of the medieval village towards the dock."
April Williams
"I was told I was lucky to find the place this empty, because it’s usually crowded. Still I found some disgrace of having a family talking out loud inside the house. It’s a shame the persons inside controlling and guarding can’t say anything to them to observe silence. It was perhaps less than a minute there and you see everything so quick even without to much traffic.. I cannot imagine how it is when it’s packed!. Also, it was disgusting to see cover masks on the message wall attached to the letters. What is that???"
Ángel Ayala
"Among the atmospheric ruins of Rhodes Old Town lies the hauntingly beautiful Church of the Virgin Mary of the Burgh, also known as Panagia tou Bourgou. Located in the eastern part of the medieval quarter, this Gothic-style church once stood as the spiritual center for the Latin (Catholic) residents of the "bourg"—the merchants and civilians who lived outside the knights’ citadel.
Built in the 14th century by the Knights Hospitaller, the church showcased stunning Gothic architecture with tall vaulted ceilings, pointed arches, and a magnificent rose window. Sadly, it was heavily damaged during the Ottoman siege of 1522 and later by World War II bombings. Today, only its evocative stone shell remains, but even in ruin, it tells a powerful story.
Wandering through its roofless interior, you’ll see tall stone columns, fragments of the original windows, and remnants of chapels that once hosted solemn rituals. The silence inside contrasts with the bustling streets nearby, offering a peaceful moment of reflection.
This is a favorite spot for photographers and travelers seeking hidden gems beyond the main tourist routes."
Ufuk Yüksekkaya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Our Lady of the Burgh is conveniently located on the outskirts of the medieval village, near the dock. It's an easy and pleasant walk from the Rhodes cruise port, making it an accessible attraction for day-trippers.
While it's part of the historic area, Our Lady of the Burgh is situated on the outskirts of the medieval village, towards the dock, offering a slightly more secluded experience compared to the very center.
If you are staying in Rhodes Town, walking is a pleasant option, especially if you are exploring the medieval city. Alternatively, local buses or taxis can also take you close to the site.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of historic sites in Rhodes Old Town can be challenging. It's generally recommended to park in designated areas outside the old town walls and walk in.
The site is largely outdoors and consists of ruins. While the ground can be uneven, the main areas are generally accessible for those with moderate mobility. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no charge to enter Our Lady of the Burgh. It is a free-to-visit historical site, allowing everyone to experience its beauty and history.
As it is an open-air ruin, there are no strict opening hours. However, it is best visited during daylight hours when you can safely explore and appreciate the site.
No advance booking is required as there is no admission fee. You can visit Our Lady of the Burgh spontaneously during daylight hours.
While there isn't a formal guided tour service specifically for Our Lady of the Burgh, the educational boards outside provide historical information. You can also hire a local guide for a more in-depth experience of the entire old town.
Visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of lighting. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the ruins and their surroundings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wander through the roofless interior, admire the tall stone columns and remnants of chapels. Take a moment for quiet reflection and appreciate the contrast with the bustling streets nearby.
Most visitors find that a quick visit of about 15-30 minutes is sufficient to see everything and appreciate the atmosphere, especially if you read the educational boards.
It can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season or when cruise ships are in port. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help you avoid the largest crowds.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the ground can be uneven. Dress appropriately for the weather, and consider bringing a hat and sunscreen during warmer months.
There are no facilities directly within the ruins of Our Lady of the Burgh. You will find restrooms and dining options in the nearby medieval village and town.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Early mornings also provide fewer people in your shots.
Capture the atmospheric ruins, the interplay of light and shadow through the arches, and the details of the remaining stonework. It's a great spot for architectural and moody photography.
Drone usage is generally restricted in historic city centers and protected areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone in Rhodes.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the ruins, while a prime lens can be good for details. A tripod can help with low-light photography, especially during golden hour.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the ruins. However, be respectful of other visitors and avoid using flash if it might disturb them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the ground can be uneven, so ensure children wear sturdy shoes. It's a relatively quick visit, making it suitable for shorter attention spans. The proximity to the dock also makes it an easy stop for families arriving by cruise ship.
🚶 Solo Travelers & History Buffs
📸 Photographers
Focus on capturing the details of the stonework, the play of light through the arches, and the overall sense of history. The site is less crowded during off-peak hours, offering more opportunities for unobstructed shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Medieval Life
Tragically, the church suffered significant damage during the Ottoman siege of 1522 and further destruction from bombings in World War II. Today, what remains is an evocative stone shell, a testament to its resilience and the passage of time. Wandering through its roofless interior, visitors can still discern the remnants of chapels and imagine the solemn rituals that once took place within its walls.
Even in its ruined state, Our Lady of the Burgh offers a powerful narrative of history, faith, and survival. It's a favorite spot for those seeking hidden gems and a peaceful moment of reflection away from the main tourist thoroughfares, providing a unique connection to the island's layered history.
Photography and Atmosphere
To capture the best shots, consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset when the light is soft and warm, casting a magical glow on the ruins. Early mornings are also ideal for avoiding crowds and ensuring a more serene experience. The educational boards located on the exterior walls provide valuable context that can inspire your photographic approach, highlighting architectural details and historical narratives.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit