Colossus of Rhodes was the personification of Helios, the god of sun, protector of the island. It was one of the seven Wonders of the Ancient World as a gigantic sculpture with a height of 32 meters. It was supposed to stand with open legs at the entrance of Rhodes’ port, with a foot at each side. Back in the 4^th century B.C, Rhodians defended their city after a year long battle from the besieger Demetrius. To celebrate their victory, they sold most of his war equipment and built the structure in honor of Helios. Designed by the Lindian sculptor Harris, student of Lysippus in 3^rd century B.C., it consisted mainly of brass. It was hollow inside and could stand thanks to its iron frame and the large rocks that kept it stable. Its construction lasted about 12 years and was completed in 282 B.C.

Colossus was the pride of Rhodes’ port for about 60 years. In 222 B.C. an intense earthquake hit the island and destroyed the sculpture. In fear of it being an oracle from the gods, Rhodians didn’t even think to build it again. In 654 A.C. Saracens conquered the island and took lots of spoils, including the ruins of Colossus. It’s said that the plates were transferred back to Syria and were sold to traders or melted to create coins.

You can now feel the evolution of Rhodes through the centuries in our interactive 9D movie experience. Feel the heat of each major Rhodian battle as you roam through with our 3D, wind, fire, water, shake and sound effects!

Visit Throne of Helios 9D Cinema and Entertainment Center at 25^th March Street, 2 in the center of Rhodes. Movies start every 30 minutes and the audio is available simultaneously in 13 languages!