Exhibition ‘From the Ioannites to the Knights of Malta’ Opens at Rhodes’ Palace of the Grand Master

This exhibition marks a significant milestone, celebrating over five centuries of the Knights’ presence on the island. It showcases the rich history of the Sovereign Military Order and is the first major reorganisation of the exhibition space since 1993. The new presentation incorporates advanced audiovisual technology to engage visitors, particularly the younger audience, and has been developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and the Dodecanese Ephorate of Antiquities.

Minister Mendoni described the day as historic, highlighting that it marks the first official visit of a Grand Master to Greece since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the country and the Order in 2021. She noted that this visit is particularly meaningful as it is the first time in 500 years that a Grand Master has set foot on Rhodes, an island that served as a crucial stronghold for the Knights for 217 years.

“Rhodes, with its rich tapestry of cultural traditions and historical monuments, embraces the modern descendants of the medieval Knights as part of its cultural heritage,” Mendoni stated during her address. She also emphasized the ongoing friendship and cooperation between Greece and the Order, especially amid the current geopolitical tensions in the region.

The exhibition is divided into four thematic sections: the first covers the Order’s early history in the Holy Land, the second focuses on their time in Rhodes, the third highlights their settlement in Malta, and the fourth showcases the Order’s contemporary activities.

The opening ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including representatives from the Metropolitan Church, local government officials, and members of the Dodecanese Parliament. Mendoni concluded her speech by expressing hope that the exhibition would inspire further initiatives to celebrate and promote the shared cultural heritage between Greece and the Order.

As the exhibition opens, it stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Knights and their significant role in the Mediterranean and Greek history.

(Source: Ministry of Culture)