Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese Islands and fourth largest of all Greek Islands. Located in the south east Aegean, Rhodes lies very close to Turkey. Rhodes is often called "The Pearl of the Mediterranean" and is known for its natural beauty, historical, and archaeological treasures. The landscape is mountainous and green with pine trees, and there are beautiful beaches. Rhodes was an important center in the 3rd to 5th centuries AD as part of both the Roman and Byzantine empires. The Knights of St. John conquered and occupied Rhodes in 1306 and the medieval walled city is still a famous landmark in Rhodes town. The Knights of Rhodes rules until 1522, when Rhodes was conquered by Suleiman the Legislator. Rhodes was recently declared a world cultural heritage monument by UNESCO. The fabulous climate, night life, beaches, and wealth of tourist offerings make it a great holiday destination year round. In 408 BC, the three major cities of Rhodes (Lindus, Ialysus and Cameirus) banded together to build a new grand city at the northern tip of the island. This is the city of Rhodes today, one of the finest cities in the Mediterranean. Great weather and sunshine almost year round, the city of Rhodes combines cosmopolitan facilities with magical treasures from the past that seem almost untouched by time. With the sea all around you, the views are beautiful. Not far from the harbour, in the east of the city, you'll find the famous Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes (the Castello). The palace was originally built in the 14th century, but was then completely demolished in 1856 when the gunpowder that the Turks stored in the basement exploded. The palace was restored by the Italians in 1939 during the occupation. Lindos is one of the most beautiful villages of Rhodes : an outstanding acropolis rises above traditional white houses, set on a beautiful beach in a picturesque little harbour - Ayios Pavlos. There is a lot to explore on the Acropolis; the Castle of the Knights, byzantine church of St. John, Great Stoa, ancient theatre, Temple of Dionysos, and the Temple of Athena Lindia (4th century BC). The rock of the acropolis is a sheer 115m above the sea.