Lindos, an acropolis with a lineage that can be traced back to ancient times, underwent a remarkable transformation from sacred grounds to a military bastion. This evolution exemplifies the fortitude and ingenuity imprinted on the landscape by various ruling entities over the centuries.
From Sacred to Secular – The Byzantine Shift
Following the cessation of Athena’s worship, the ancient sanctuary of Lindos pivoted to a new role as a military garrison. Though scant evidence persists, indications of repairs to the aged Hellenistic ramparts suggest a continued commitment to the fort’s preservation during the Byzantine era.
The Knights’ Sanctuary – The Medieval Period
Under the auspices of the Knights of Saint John (1309-1522), the castle enjoyed a revival. It provided sanctuary to Grand Master Foulques de Villaret after he was ousted in 1317. Even under siege, the formidable fortifications repelled the attackers, proving their resilience.
Reinforcement and Expansion – 15th Century Developments
In the 15th century, the strategy shifted to fortify the lower slopes, creating an entrance area to the acropolis. Although only remnants of the once-formidable defence structures like the low perimeter wall and north-eastern tower endure, these enhancements signify an era of strategic expansion.
The western archway, carrying Grand Master Antoin Fluvian’s crest, marks a gateway through which a fifty-step staircase once led up to a pivotal terrace. This grand access route has not survived beyond the early 20th century.
The Acropolis Entrance – A Monument Restored
Access to the central command was once via a spectacular stairway, bordered by defensive walls. Today, visitors can witness the full restoration of this pathway, a testament to the enduring significance of preserving such historical treasures.
An enigmatic second staircase along the eastern aspect of the Commander’s House, thought to have been linked via a wooden bridge to the upper levels, further illustrates the complexity and resourcefulness of the fortress’s design.
Weaknesses and Innovations – Structural Interpretations
Despite these additions, certain areas of the fortification, notably the lower defensive lines with their modest walls and exposed gates, may not have fulfilled their intended protective functions. They’re often deemed to have served as watch-points or outer defences rather than effective barriers against invasions.
In the construction of the medieval enhancements, ancient remnants were buried beneath new stonework, leading to the thickening of the castle’s ramparts by one meter compared to its Hellenistic predecessors. In revamping their bulwarks, the Knights repurposed materials from destroyed ancient edifices, integrating history into their new designs. Evidence of these constructions, along with varied-shaped towers, is most palpable in the pentagonal structure located by the Commander’s abode.
Ottomans and Decline – A Castle’s Final Chapter
December 30, 1522, marked the end as the Knights Hospitaller surrendered Lindos to Ottoman hands. Although the new occupiers instated their garrison and made minor repairs, by then the fortress had begun to wane in prominence. Efforts, including the addition of bastions in the 16th and 17th centuries, were not enough to revive Lindos’ bygone glory.
Archaeological Beginnings – The Turn of 20th Century
A key transformation in Lindos’ storied past unfolded when the Carlsberg Foundation of Copenhagen stepped in. After June 24, 1902, the citadel was no longer deemed militaristic, ushering in an era solely dedicated to archaeological pursuit and education. This pivotal change brought an end to over 2500 years of the fortress’ defensive role, marking the start of its journey as a source of historical enlightenment for future generations.