Thermes Kallithea Rhodes

Kallithea Therms on the island of Rhodes is one of the most architecturally extraordinary spa complexes in the Mediterranean, built in 1929 in an exuberant orientalist style — a fusion of Italian modernist, Moorish, and Byzantine architectural influences — under the Italian Fascist administration of the Dodecanese islands, by architects Pietro Lombardi and Francesco Di Fausto. The sulphated mineral spring waters here, known since antiquity (Hippocrates reputedly prescribed them for kidney and liver conditions), feed the historic rotunda pool and mosaic terrace complex that has been extensively restored as a protected heritage site and is now primarily visited as an architectural and cultural attraction alongside the pebble beach that has replaced the original bathing facilities. The Kallithea Springs complex, with its arched loggia, palm garden, dome rotunda, and magnificent mosaic terrace overlooking an azure cove, is one of the most beautiful and photographed historic spa buildings in the world. Combining a visit to Kallithea Therms with Rhodes's incomparable medieval Old City — a UNESCO World Heritage fortified town of extraordinary completeness — creates one of the most visually and culturally rewarding day excursions on any Mediterranean island.