I agree that a rebuild of The Colossus would be a wonderful thing, in some way. That seems like such a long time ago, and maybe I am naive, but were they really able to record such things back then and be preserved so long? Although it is centuries ago, I believe certain things are recorded and kept. Really well done and I thoroughly enjoyed reading your post. To refresh your memory, the Colossus of Rhodes, standing at 98 feet, was a bronze statue of the Greek titan-god of the sun Helios. Especially back then when tall buildings were rare. Question. Drop me a line too if there is anything you want to know that I have not yet mentioned! If it goes ahead, it is said that it will cost in excess of 280 Million Dollars and will stand at 5 times the height of the original Colossus. Boomstick: Damn Greeks and their confusing mythology. Full view. M.E.T.H.O.D. People are very creative and the details they add can be pretty spectacular! For twelve years, workers forged and reforged iron and bronze left behind from military weapons to create the outer shell of the statue. Today I want to talk to you about The Colossus in Rhodes and a little on the history of what it was all about. Rhodes Town 851 00 Greece. Preserved in Greek anthologies of poetry is what is believed to be the genuine dedication text for the Colossus. There is lots more coming Nicki so be sure to come back. Many people do come to Greece and they hop around. I will keep you updated if I hear anything . Wiz: No, Helios. Enter the new Colossus of Rhodes. The base was made of white marble, and the feet and ankle of the statue were first fixed. As you rightly say, The Colossus was a statue which was erected to thank the God Helios for the successful battle against the Besieger centuries ago, as i say in the post really! Luckily, there's a group of modern young professionals who are looking to bring it all back. . Although the statue had stood for just five decades, its remains lay on the ground of the city for the next 800 years. Even though it was one of the Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World, there is no clear evidence as to wear it actually stood or indeed what it truly looked like. The mainland is worth seeing for sure. Just drop me a comment below and I will get back to you! If you already new, I guess this serves as information for someone else . I know there are plans which will be put into place which will involve A New Colossus to be constructed. Another site that I wish was still around is the Great Library at Alexandria. In the ancient world, there were many incredible statues erected for certain events or on behalf of powerful figures. It was a symbol of unity of the people who inhabited that beautiful Mediterranean island of Rhodes. This makes me want to visit the sites and take in the history. It was also the tallest statue of bronze and iron of the time. While on holiday in Rhodes, an Athenian war hero becomes involved in two different plots to overthrow the tyrannical king: one from Rhodian patriots, and the other from sinister Phoenician agents. Feel free to let me know if you make some solid plans to see the island here, and if you need anything I will be happy to help you out with some useful information! The statue of The Colossus took 12 years to commission and build. When visiting Greece what are the most recommended places to visit? The Colossus is advertised a lot here on the island of Rhodes. Hi Bret, thanks for your comment, and I hope you are doing fine! With the money raised from this equipment, the decision was made that with the finances, a statue would be commissioned and erected thanking the god Helios for their successful conquest! Many years later in 653 AD one scenario mentions that all the remaining pieces were stolen and sold to a Jewish trader by the Arabs of Moab. What is the Colossus? A Complete Tour Of The Most Beautiful Island In Greece. In my opinion it is tragic that it fell and to my knowledge, none of the pieces were ever retained or put on display anywhere either. Hi Chris, thanks for sharing this great article about The Colossus In Rhodes. There is always evidence of what was before, just maybe not all the facts! Part of HuffPost Entertainment. One of the things she mentioned was Greece and she highly recommended that we visit. Thanks for reading Maureen, great to hear from you. Your site is refreshing and well done, thank you for creating this – very exciting! Standing 30 meters (100 feet) high, it was built to guard the entrance to the harbor at Rhodes. Sadly, in 226 B.C., an earthquake devastated the island and the statue was destroyed. From the crowning elevation of the acropolis, the Colossus of Rhodes could be seen standing magnificently by itself (see Figure 1)— distinct from the numerous other “colossal” statues, including gods, which Pliny the Elder says (34.18.42) embellished the city at the same time. The Colossus of Rhodes was a massive statue of Helios, the sun God, made of bronze with one foot either side of the harbour and 40 metres high. Athens is an amazing place and the Acropolis and Parthenon are extremely beautiful. Now, this is a subject that raises questions and discussions (sometimes heated too) as it has become a matter of opinion over the centuries. A group of architects want to reinspire Europe by rebuilding one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World — the Colossus of Rhodes. The ruins of the temple in Rhodes, part of the Acropolis of Rhodes, which may have held the foundations for the Colossus. Also the Ancient City of Kameiros is another essential place to visit. Do you think it should be rebuilt? Tap here to turn on desktop notifications to get the news sent straight to you. In your opinion, what is the perfect greek vacation? I have always heard of the Colossus of Rhodes, but I didn’t really know too much about it. As construction took them higher and higher, the workers developed a new method of reaching the heights. Santorini is a beautiful island, but in all honesty a lot of the Greek Islands are. It was 32m high and was made of bronze, except the pedestal and feet, on which it was mounted, which were of marble… Unfortunately, we did not have a chance. Hey Peter thanks for your thoughts on this. If it had not been sacked, I’m sure we would still have many contemporary references to the Colossus, and would have a much better idea of what the Colossus was really like (not to mention the huge ancient knowledge base that humanity lost with the loss of the library). The statue of The Colossus took 12 years to commission and build. Although The Colossus of Rhodes no longer stands, there is a lot of history here for you to appreciate. Today is National Voter Registration Day! If it were still standing today, modern people would probably still be impressed by it. When Alexander the Great died, his four generals fought over his empire. I guess that makes it more interesting though . The images shown are of course a general opinion of how it once looked. They intend the statue to be a museum that houses "the hundreds of archaeological findings forgotten in the storerooms," something they believe will "have a 'Domino' effect in the economy.". This is also the case for Rhodes. Unfortunately it lay there for a long time (centuries) and the Rhodian people did not want it rebuilt as they felt its destruction was that of a curse. The earthquake took place in 226 BC and it brought the Colossus down in pieces. I do not know any details about this at the moment, but for sure the money can be better spent when you look at the current Greek and European Union budgets. Although the Colossus is no longer in existence, another famous work of art, inspired by the Colossus, is still standing. This story has the Colossus as a defensive weapon as well as an intimidating sentinel. To make the framework safe, rocks were included as part of the structure. I will be showing this to my adult Sunday school class. From this angle I am not so sure! In the verse, Rhodes is described as a "Director and Statesman in one" and a "Seven-League-Booted Colossus" that stands "O'er Africa striding from dark end to end, to forward black emancipation." There are lots of mysteries to the ancient world that once stood where new attractions are today. But hey, that’s my opinion for what it is worth . It brought me into the story with you. I am glad to hear I’m not the only one who thought that the Colossus was still standing! No sir, the Colosseum is in Rome (Italy) and not Rhodes (Greece). ©2021 BuzzFeed, Inc. All rights reserved. I visited Rhodes back in ’02 and I too was struck with the history of the place and just imaging the Colossus still standing. Read all 369 reviews. Hope this helps Jen, and if you need more just let me know . Greece needs something like this but you’re right that is a huge price tag. As you say who can say if the colossus was there or not, where exactly was it build. The Colossus of Rhodes was not only a gigantic statue. What is amazing to me is the history behind it and how they know when it was destroyed and by what. The pickle example made me laugh I think it is called the Gerkhin actually if I am not mistaken, but you are right, it is one of the most iconic building in London and certainly one everybody knows. I like that it is a mystery, and I think this adds to the fascination of it. I think somehow something is calling for us to come to Greece. They also felt they had insulted Helios. I really hope they rebuild it because a lot of famous cities have modern structures that now define them. The ancient Greeks and Romans considered it to be one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Ad Honorem. Hello Dallas and thank you for your interest. I think it would be really amazing if they did construct another one. He is also described as a "shrewd trader" and a "diplomat full of … Boomstick: You mean Apollo. I think you can see The Colossus is somewhat of a mystery. "Thanks to technology, people all around the world could be involved. The simple answer to this is ‘you can’t’. It is good to know you have frequented Greece on many occasions but saddening to know you have never made it to Rhodes . So to answer your question, before the earthquake it was a statue, and now it is not – it was destroyed in 226 BC! In the meantime, feel free to watch their video on the project repeatedly. 3. Some weapons that were left behind by The Besieger were also utilized, and became part of the materials used to construct the statue. The masterful works of ancient sculptor Phidias The Colossus of Rhodes, depicted in this hand-colored engraving, was built about 280 BC. This is where opinions arise, and sometimes these opinions can become the said facts over centuries! At this moment I am preparing a lot of information on the latter two which will be available soon. I like to see people’s renditions of it in art. As for the rebuild, I don’t know. The statue was made from Iron and the skin from bronze. Who knows, another myth? Odds are, you haven't thought about the Colossus of Rhodes since high school when you were forced to remember the Seven Wonders of the World for a history test. Hi there – I’ve always wanted to travel to Europe and Greece is definitely on my must see list. As the structure was built, the body would be filled with stones. When visiting the islands, there is usually a boat service which runs back and forward from mainland Greece. But the statue at Rhodes survives in a different way, too. There is a lot to see in Greece and each place has its own unique feeling and experience. To know it stood, to know who designed it, what it was made from, how long it took to build and even its destruction, why is it myth as to wear it truly stood and what it for sure looked like? Many will argue when it comes to what its appearance was, others will argue its location. Amazing article! I was actually looking at one of your other pages on transport in Rhodes and came across this page on the Colossus. I would like to see it happen in one way, as for sure it would go down in the islands history once more, and to be here and witness that would be amazing! So not really any options to go and see maybe a piece of it at a museum? Thank you for the interesting history of TheColossus in Rhodes. But the team stresses they do not want to build a replica of the original bronze structure of a warrior standing over the entrance of the ancient city’s harbour. Standing at 32 meters tall, the bronze statue stood in the harbour of Rhodes as a signal of victory over the Macedonian army, in the likeness of the Titan of the Sun: Helios. Wiz: One such wonder was the Colossus of Rhodes. Thanks for sharing. Hey there thanks so much for your thoughts on this. As for me, I have lived on the island of Rhodes now for many years. Thanks Alejandra, I really appreciate your visit. Yes I must admit the Colossus Of Rhodes is one of the more famous icons for the island although it fell all them years ago. These can be found in a lot of the tourist shops with many other souvenirs! After the Rhodians defeated The Besieger, he and his army fled leaving all of their belongings behind. The Medieval City information is available already and here for you to read. Helios was the Titan of the sun. There are other attractions, many in fact, but in my opinion the above list would be my top 3 visits. I must admit I always knew it had been destroyed all those centuries ago, but I guess we are not all the same. If you are a lover of history, then this would be a great option for you . As you say, can you imagine seeing the Colossus of Rhodes still standing - wow what a sight!! I think your website is extremely interesting as I have never been to Rhodes, but now after viewing your site I would like to visit and have a look around. Palla's idea led him to partner with an entire team comprising fellow architects, engineers, economists and public relations professionals from Spain, the U.K., Italy, and Greece to create the vision of the modern Colossus. The Colossus was said to be 70 cubits (105 feet [32 metres]) high and stood beside Mandrákion harbour, perhaps shielding its eyes with one hand, as a representation in a relief suggests. Later on it is documented that the Rhodian people were also called Colossians after the destruction of the statue simply because of the legend of The Colossus. Colossus of Rhodes was built around 281-282 BC and it symbolized Helios, the Greek titan God that helped the Rhode’s win the war over the ruler of Cyprus. At least I figured it out before visiting there, so I know I’m finding out at a better time than some people . The Colossus was something that would have been amazing to see and there are so many depictions of what it looked like. However, the image we all know and love has nothing to do with how the statue really looked like in real life. This is why I mention it outright at the beginning of the text. I’ve been to Greece many times, unfortunately never to Rhodes. 148 Restaurants within 0.3 miles. Now, I came across your article though and it is a wonderful reminder for me to renew my passport and plan a trip there. For Thaleia, this names derives from Thallo, which is the Greek word meaning ‘To Blossom”.. Sometimes things can become myth over time, which only serves peoples curiosity. Hope this helps you, and if you need more just let me know . After reading your article I know more about it, I will put a trip to Rhodes on my wish list, I’m sure it would be something amazing! The cookie settings on this website are set to "allow cookies" to give you the best browsing experience possible. I am half and half when it comes to the new Colossus project though. All them years ago, that little older lady in Italy was correct, you should visit Greece. Hi there, I am Chris and I live on The Island Of Rhodes In Greece. Sadly, in 226 B.C., an earthquake devastated the island and the statue was destroyed. Location. They dock and depart from Piraeus in Athens. Wonderful information here, and I’m now really fascinated to read your other articles and future posts. I mean why not right? It would be a great center piece now for people to see. Thank you for offering some insight into this bit of Greece’s history. Look at that stupid pickle structure they built in London. The Colossus of Rhodes occupies an honorable place in it. I am keeping my eyes and ears open, but as yet I am yet to hear anything concrete. Standing on a small island in the harbor is an immense statue of a robed woman, holding a book and lifting a torch to the sky. Forgive my ignorance. Your email address will not be published. The most common impression you see of The Colossus to day is the same as the images you see here on this page. Hey Nicki thanks so much for your comment on this . It was 32 meters in height and it was said to have been stood at the entrance to the main harbor in Rhodes Town (more coming in a while on the location). It would be impressive to see a modern remake of the Colossus. The Colossus of Rhodes is considered one of the Ancient Mysteries because it is believed by many researchers to have been situated on the harbor of Mandraki. Conflicting stories of where it stood and even what it looked like. Ships could pass underneath. Hey, maybe you have visited this beautiful place yourself and you have something you want to share? Hope this helps, and let me know if you need something more. But some dispute that it stood on top of a hill that was named Monte Smith, which overlooked the port area. Yes, a lot of people assume the Colossus is still standing. I am happy you enjoyed the information here. So yes, it is easy to move around and see some other places too. I heard about it but I never spent enough time to explore the story in detail. It was located -- you guessed it -- on the Greek island of Rhodes and was erected by Chares of Lindos in 280 B.C. But of course, it’s not my money . If you continue to use this website without changing your cookie settings or you click "Accept" below then you are consenting to this. A fun, fantasized account of the Colossus of Rhodes, and why it isn't still standing. Because The Colossus stood so many years ago, there have naturally been many renditions of it come to light when it comes to its portrayal. It was one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Very informative. Apollo was the God of the sun. I certainly know that it would attract millions of tourists, without doubt. A couple of days here, a couple of days there, and over a 2 week period they soak in many of the islands and the mainland too. If you are here for only a week, sometimes you can leave without seeing some of the places which are classed as ‘must see’ places. I love history and I really enjoyed reading this article! The idea looks fascinating, but there's no word on when or how they're going to get the ball rolling on this just yet. But you are right, had such a resource such as this library survived, there would be a lot more in the way of accurate knowledge today, including the Colossus!! I also think the original should never be forgotten and i am not keen on something taking away the attention from this. If you remember on the ‘Classical Antiquity Period‘ section of this website, I mentioned Dimitros Poliorkitis (the Besieger). and erected on the Greek island of Rhodes. As an avid traveller, I probably would have set out to find out where it had stood on my journeys in Greece, but good to know that no one actually knows. As for naming your children with Greek names, I think that is a really great touch. Between the Alafi (Deer) and the harbour lighthouse. Even though the Colossus is no longer standing, you can see the area it use to be at. Even after its destruction there are different stories about what happened to its remaining pieces. That was an amazing history lesson on the Colossus of Rhodes. It is all hearsay as it stands now, and as of this moment there is no evidence to support it being constructed. On saying that, the mystery of the original is awesome, so should it be replaced? Well done effects where the Colossus is in the scenes. Yes the destruction of the Great Library of Alexandria in Egypt is without doubt a huge loss. The Colossus of Rhodes was a giant statue of the god Helios, erected on the Greek island of Rhodes by Chares of Lindos between 292 BC and 280 BC. I think it would be great to have a Colossus here yes, but I still would not like to see the original overshadowed. Thus, the Colossus of Rhodes will become a 'global' monument," notes their website. E.g. The islands have a lot to offer though, so it would be a shame to miss out on those. Best nearby. *. There is so much to see and learn! There is also talk these days of a new Colossus being built. He believed that they could not be destroyed. This article inspires me to want to learn more about the history of Greece. Although your questions is not really aimed at the Colossus or at Rhodes, I am going to answer it anyway . My husband and I visited Italy in the late 90’s. It is sometimes referred to as the "Modern Colossus," but more often called the Statue of Liberty. Chares of Lindos was given the responsibility for this project and from 304 to 292 BC he fashioned and completed the statue. Do NOT follow this link or you will be banned from the site. Equal with mystery too, as it is not 100% sure when the library was destroyed. Maybe you know already, but the name Zephyr derives from the Greek name Zephyros and he was the God of the West Wind. I think because it is well advertised like I mention in the post, people naturally look for it. It is a crime to visit the island and not see and experience this. The Colossus of Rhodes It is called The Statue of Liberty! The statue measures almost one-hundred and twenty feet from foot to crown. I had no idea that it was destroyed In a earthquake! There was the Colossus of Nero, the statue of Rameses II (better known as Ozymandias, courtesy of Percy Shelley and, most recently, "Breaking Bad"), and, of course, the Colossus of Rhodes. In my opinion, there is a lot in the way of stories when it comes to The Colossus! Unfortunately, the Colossus of Rhodes only stood for about fifty-four years before it collapsed in 226 BC during a major earthquake. As per the website, Colossus of Rhodes 2.0 was an idea developed by architect Ari A. Palla after the recent economical turmoil erupted in Greece. You will see it in books, leaflets and information guides. It is technically impossible that the statue could have straddled the harbour entrance, and the popular belief that it did so dates only from the Middle Ages. Always nice to see you! A lot of people over the generations past, have had different opinions and it has become somewhat of a myth as to the true description. She couldn’t speak English well and I can’t speak Italian, so I had to guess at  some of the things she told me. Is there a certain part of the Island of Rhodes that you would recommend over others? I was surprised to find so many people here asking were it stands, and then I have had to break the bad news to them. Other believe that it stood on normal land located in the vicinity of where the Palace Of The Grand Masters is situated (inside the Rhodes Medieval City). We made it easy for you to exercise your right to vote! But to me things are not only about making money. Do you think The Colossus should remain a thing of the past? It was commissioned by Chares of Lindos and was completed in 282 BC and depicted the Sun God Helios. I am pretty surprised to hear that not even a single piece has been recovered!! At more than 150 staggering meters, Palla and his team's vision is that the new statue isn't a direct copy of the original. Hey thanks again for your visit.. Now I have very clear travel destination for the next time I will be in Greece. Your article about the Colossus was very informative. With such a short life it is difficult to know exactly what this statue looked like. Hi there Jen and thanks for your time and for reading. It must been one hell of a sight. I know now it’s a statue, but before the earthquake what was it? This added stability to The Colossus. Thanks once again, it is nice to see you back here. It is an important point that you bring up too, and it is also something i am looking into. Are there miniature statues they sell there of what they believe the Colossus to look like?That would be fun!

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