Rhodes (Greek Ródhos), city, southeastern Greece, at the northeastern extremity of the island of Rhodes, capital of the department (nome) of the Dodecanese, on the Aegean Sea, near Turkey. The city is a port and a trading center for agricultural products; manufactures include carpets, brandy, cigarettes, and soap. Near the important southern harbor is the old walled city, which was built mainly in the early 14th century by the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem. Notable buildings in the old section include the Grand Hospital of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Masters. The modern section, near the smaller northern harbor, contains government buildings, hotels, and a national theater. The present city is located near the site of the ancient city of Rhodes, which was founded in 408 BC. Population (1991) 43,619.
