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Παλαιό Καταφύγιο
Located on the beautiful island of Rhodes, Greece, at Notia Rodos 851 09, Παλαιό Καταφύγιο (Palaio Kataphygio) stands as a significant historical site and a unique point of interest. This former Italian Navy coastal battery offers visitors a compelling journey into a pivotal moment of World War II, known as The Battle of Rhodes.
📜 Historical Significance & Structure
Παλαιό Καταφύγιο was originally known as Battery "Mocenigo," a crucial coastal defense installation of the Italian Navy. During the Second World War, it played a role in The Battle of Rhodes, a critical situation where brave Italian and German soldiers lost their lives.
The bunker was equipped with impressive weaponry, including three 120/45 mm guns and one 76/17 mm gun. Beyond the main bunker, visitors can also explore the armory dedicated to the battery, located to the left of the path leading to the bunker. This area still holds related pieces of artillery shells, providing a tangible connection to its past.
🚶♀️ Visitor Experience & Condition
Visitors generally find the bunker itself to be very interesting to explore, with some describing it as an "amazing place!" and highlighting its "interesting properties." The structure allows for exploration of its various rooms, offering a sense of its original design and purpose. The site also boasts spectacular views, adding to the overall experience.
However, it is worth noting that the condition of the adjacent armory is not ideal, with reports of "a lot of dirt from goats and strange bones." Despite this, the depiction of the Italian Navy is still visible, allowing for a glimpse into its history.
While one review mentions "not much to see," the consensus leans towards it being "worth seeing if you want to experience a little adventure" and a strong recommendation for those interested in history and unique exploration.
🚗 Accessibility & Essential Tips
Reaching Παλαιό Καταφύγιο requires some preparation:
- By Car: If driving, a 4x4 vehicle is definitely recommended due to the terrain.
- On Foot: For those preferring a walk, the ascent is described as "very very easy," taking approximately 20 minutes to reach and 20 minutes to return. Be prepared for some wind.
- Navigation: Upon arrival, ensure you take the sandy road that directly leads to the bunker.
- Important Note: ⚠️ Do not take the terrain road on the right, as it is private property, and "two friendly dogs will deny your access."
- Provisions: It is advisable to bring water and some snacks, as there are no facilities on-site.
Overall, Παλαιό Καταφύγιο offers a compelling adventure for history enthusiasts and those seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience on Rhodes Island, blending historical significance with stunning natural surroundings.
This is an important historical site, it represents a delicate moment, well known as The Battle of Rhodes, during the II world war in which valorous men between Italians and Germans died in a critical situation.This bunker was a coastal battery of the Italian Navy named battery “Mocenigo”, with three 120/45 and one 76/17 mm gun. Is very interesting to visit, and you will have the chance not only to see an Italian bunker but also the armory dedicated to the battery (on the left of the path before the bunker) and related pieces of artillery shells. Is a shame that the condition of the armory is not the best (a lot of dirt from goats and strange bones), but the depiction of the Italian Navy is still there and you can go around the rooms to admire the structure.To reach it by car you need definitely a 4x4 ; if you want to have a walk, is 20 minutes going - 20 minutes going back, very very easy ascent (just some wind). Bring water and some snacks. When you arrive, you have to take the sandy road that lead to the bunker ; don’t take the terrain road on the right because is a private property and two friendly dogs will deny your access.
Worth seeing if you want to experience a little adventure. Each bunker has its own interesting properties. Views are also spectacular.
