A Hidden Gem in Rhodes, Greece: The Magic of Marco Polo Mansion

The enchanting Marco Polo Mansion in Rhodes’ Old Town in Greece is a hidden gem where historic charm meets modern luxury

Rhodes, the island of knights and endless sunshine, is a place where history intertwines seamlessly with the present. Walking through the labyrinthine streets of the Old Town, you might stumble upon a hidden treasure, a place that seems to have leaped out of a different era, brimming with charm and stories untold. This is Marco Polo Mansion, a boutique hotel unlike any other, where time slows down, and every corner whispers tales of its rich past.

A Journey Back in Time: The Restoration of Marco Polo Mansion

The story of Marco Polo Mansion begins with an Italian artist named Giuseppe Sala, a man with an eye for beauty and a heart for preservation. It was more than a decade ago, on a warm June morning, when Giuseppe, along with his friend Efi Dede, first laid eyes on what would become their labor of love. Nestled on the quaint and characteristic Odos Fanouriou, the mansion was a majestic Turkish house, a relic of a splendid past, waiting to be reborn.

Stepping into the mansion back then was like entering a forgotten world. The once-glorious garden had been left untouched for years, a wild and enchanting scene with towering weeds, gnarled vines heavy with grapes, and trees laden with oranges and tangerines. It was a space that nature had claimed back, its beauty undiminished by neglect. The house itself, though aged, still held onto its grandeur – a harem, a wewey, and original Ottoman wardrobes that spoke of its storied history.

For months, Giuseppe and Efi had searched for the perfect place, a space where Efi and her husband Spiros could pour their creativity and warmth into creating something truly special. And there it was, this Turkish house, waiting to be transformed into a small hotel that would embody the essence of the Mediterranean spirit.

Over the years, the mansion was meticulously restored, with every detail carefully considered to preserve its authentic character while infusing it with a contemporary touch. The result is a space where old-world charm meets modern comfort, where every piece of furniture has been handpicked or specially designed by Giuseppe Sala himself. Walking through the halls of Marco Polo Mansion feels like being transported back in time, yet with all the luxuries of the present at your fingertips.

Hospitality with Heart: Efi Dede’s Warm Welcome at Marco Polo Mansion

But what truly sets Marco Polo Mansion apart is not just its stunning architecture or its beautiful rooms draped in veils that catch the light in the most magical ways. It is the soul of the place, embodied by Efi Dede, the heart and soul of the mansion. Efi is not just a hotel manager; she is a hostess in the truest sense of the word, welcoming guests as if they were old friends. Her warmth is infectious, and her hospitality is unmatched.

Under her care, the mansion is not just a place to stay but an experience to be cherished. Guests leave with more than just memories of a beautiful hotel; they leave with a piece of Efi’s heart.

A Culinary Journey in the Secret Garden

Beyond its captivating rooms and welcoming atmosphere, Marco Polo Mansion also houses one of the island’s most treasured dining experiences. Tucked away in the vibrant secret garden, where breakfast is served each morning to hotel guests, lies a restaurant that marries fine dining with elevated Mediterranean cuisine and expertise in wine pairing. This hidden gem has garnered a reputation as one of Rhodes’ top gastronomic havens.

The garden, alive with vivid colors and fragrant flowers, creates a serene backdrop for a meal that is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the food. Guests are greeted by exceptional service that sets the tone for their time-traveling culinary escapade. The menu, a tribute to the many cultures Marco Polo encountered, is a sophisticated fusion of Mediterranean delights that appeal to both the connoisseur and the casual diner. Here, each course is as much a piece of art as it is a piece of history, presenting contemporary creations alongside restrained classics. With its warm ambiance and exquisite flavors, dining at Marco Polo Mansion is not just a meal, but a journey through time and taste, leaving an indelible mark on every guest who dines there.

So, if you find yourself wandering the cobblestone streets of Rhodes’ Old Town, take a turn down Odos Fanouriou. There, behind an unassuming door, lies a hidden gem, a place where history, art, and hospitality come together in the most beautiful way. Marco Polo Mansion is not just a hotel; it’s a love letter to Rhodes, a testament to the enduring beauty of the past and the vibrant life of the present.