Follow in the path of the Crusader Knights after the fall of Jerusalem as they traversed the Mediterranean Islands with Far Horizons
Join Far Horizons on a 15-day tour from Cyprus to Rhodes and Malta, following the Knights of the Crusades. Over thousands of years, Cyprus, Rhodes, and Malta have been claimed by many civilizations. These islands and the Eastern Mediterranean coasts were frequently invaded and explored. Due to their strategic importance, knights and kings fought to control these lands during the Crusades. Throughout history, great swaths of territory were conquered and lost in this region. The profusion of magnificent archaeological ruins left behind proclaims their significance.
Known as the Order of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem, the order was founded to defend the crusader towns in the Holy Land. When these settlements collapsed, the Knights continued their fight in Cyprus, Rhodes, Symrna, Bodrum and ultimately Malta. The Order remains in Rome as ‘The Sovereign Military and Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem.’ In Britain, it led to the formation of the St. John’s Ambulance Brigade. We will follow the Order’s journey across time and the Mediterranean Sea. Along this path, it left deep and still visible imprints that remain today.
Why tour Cyprus, Rhodes and Malta with Far Horizons?
- Hosted by the director of The Cyprus American Archaeological Research Institute, enjoy a private talk on CAARI’s latest work. Additionally, attend an exclusive dinner party with archaeologists currently working in Cyprus.
- Five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Explore Neolithic Choirokoitia and the Painted Churches in the Troodos Mountains. Discover the Medieval city of Rhodes and Valleta’s Fortifications. Finally, visit the Megalithic temples on Malta.
- Private tour of prehistoric sites with Dr. Nicholas Vella of Malta University.
- Travel with renowned Medieval specialist, Dr. Carol Symes.
- Limited to a maximum of 14 participants.
Itinerary in a glance at your Cyprus, Rhodes, and Malta trip:
Explore the rich history of Cyprus, including Byzantine churches in the Troodos Mountains, the ancient settlement of Choirokoitia, and the impressive ruins of Kourion. Visit Paphos, home to the Tombs of the Kings and the Temple of Aphrodite. Delve into the medieval charm of Kyrenia, Bellapais Abbey, and Selimiye Mosque.
In Rhodes, walk along the City Walls and discover the ancient Lindos Castle. Experience Malta’s historical landmarks like the Grand Master’s Palace and the ancient temples of Hagar Qim, Mnajdra, and the Hypogeum, as well as the fortified city of Mdina. Finally, explore Gozo, including the Ggantija Temples, some of the world’s oldest free-standing structures.
