The ancient acropolis of Ialyssos once dominated the hilltop of Filerimos, situated near what is now the village of Trianta. Following the Dorian settlement around 1100 BC, the city became an integral member of the prestigious Dorian Hexapolis alliance. Archaeologists later discovered the necropolis of ancient Ialyssos in the area between Trianta and Filerimos.
The significance of this historical site was further illuminated during the excavations of 1876, which revealed Mycenaean pottery, a Doric foundation, and a Hellenistic temple dedicated to Athena Polias - all evidence of the city's prosperity until the establishment of Rhodes city in 408 BC. As centuries passed, the site transitioned through various historical epochs, from the domain of the Knights of St. John during medieval times to Ottoman governance, and ultimately coming under Italian administration.
The historical layers of Filerimos remain visible today through remarkable architectural remnants that chronicle its diverse past. Visitors ascending the ancient path to the Acropolis encounter the foundational stones of what was once a grand temple dedicated to Zeus and Athena.
The summit reveals an exquisite church consecrated to Holy Mary, though its history reflects the region's tumultuous past - the original monastery fell to ruin during Ottoman rule, only to be meticulously reconstructed during the Italian period.
Under Italian administration, Capuchin monks became the new stewards of this sacred space, transforming it with their architectural vision into a haven of tranquil walkways and contemplative corridors. These industrious monks also left another enduring legacy: a sophisticated herbal liqueur known as "Sette Erbe" (Seven Herbs), crafted from local botanicals.
This traditional recipe survives to this day, and visitors can still sample this unique blend at the site's canteen, tasting a piece of living history.
