Greece Municipality of Petaloudes (Butterflies) Rhodes
Kremasli. Paradisi. Theologos. Pelaloudes. Kalopelra. Maritsa. Pastida. DamalriaMunicipality of Petaloudes tel. +30 22413 61600 www.dimospetaloudon.gr
The municipality of Petaloudes comprises the villages of Kremasti, Paradisi and Theologos. The inland communities Pastida. Maritsa and Damatria and the unique valley known as Petaloudes. In ancient times this region was the southernmost extent of the city-state of lalisos. The ancient rural towns of Istanioi (at Theologos) and Damatriis (at Damatria) have been discovered by excavations and other historical sources. During later times forts. Byzantine churches and monasteries were all constructed in the region. The area still has a traditional rural character.
Even though this is combined with a remarkable growth in the tourist sector. based on the hospitality of the inhabitants and the natural beauty of the district. The centre of the municipality is Kremasti. one of the biggest and liveliest villages on the island, famous for its major festival of the Panagia (Virgin Mary) celebrated on 15th August every year. The beach of Kremasti is perfect for kitesurfing and windsurfing Beyond Paradisi lies Theologos, a lovely village close to the international airport. This area is experiencing the most significant tourist growth in the region, with modern hotels and an organized beach with many water sports facilities, specially for windsurfing and kitesurfing In the rural communities of Pastida and Damatria, visitors can admire the small Byzantine monasteries and meet the locals, as well as in Maritsa, a traditional village with tavernas. The most fascinating and popular attraclion of the region is certainly the valley of Petaloudes, with its unique flora and fauna and the historic monastery of Kalopetra at the highest point of the valley.
The Valley of the Butterflies. A well-known habitat of rare beauty and unique value for the reproduction of the Panaxia Quadripunctaria butterfly.
An unquestionable point of attraction for thousands of tourists on the island of Rhodes, the Valley of the Butterflies features an ambience of incomparable scenic beauty, with lush vegetation and laughing streams of water accompanying the visitor while strolling through the paths artfully traced throughout the site. Also to be visited in the Valley, the Museum of Natural History of the island of Rhodes, located right at the entrance of the site, where visitors have the opportunity to delve into the secrets of this unique ecosystem.
Theologos (or Tholos). A modern seaside resort, where the village has maintained its traditional colour. The ruins of the ancient town of Istanioi are especially interesting, as well as the many churches of the region. It is also one of the best spots on the west Side of the island for windsurfing, kitesurfing and other waters ports.
The Panagia Kalopetra monastery, at the northern tip of Petaloudes Valley, with glorious sea views. It was built by Dimitrios Ypsilantis in 1782 while in exile on Rhodes. The wooden Icon screen is justly celebrated.
Paradisi, a picturesque village close to the international airport, with traditional houses and older public buildings, such as the local school. Today"s village name ("paradise") underlines the beauty of the surrounding area. In medieval times it was called Villanova, after the Grand Master Villeneuve, who built a strong fortress here. The ruins still stand at the entrance to the village.
The old airport close to Maritsa is now used for car and motorcycle racing, as well as for air mo÷¬del displays. The airport also accommodates the offices of the Air Club of Rhodes.
Kremasti is one of the biggest and liveliest vil÷¬lages on the island. The inhabitants of Kremasti are hardworking, hospitable and keep their tra÷¬ditions. They are proud of their village and every year on 15th August they celebrate the feast of Panagia. which attracts Visitors from all the Dodecanese islands. There are many cultural events during this time as well as a handicraft exhibition.