Life in Rhodos

The first decade was really turbulent, due to the knights’ difficulty in adapting to the local Greek mentality. Moreover, in 1317, they revolted against their Grandmaster F. de Villaret, for his authoritative administration and lustful life. Finally, he lost his office, which was given to his successor Hélion de Villeneuve.

Religious affairs

Initially, the Metropolitan see of Rhodos (as well as of the surrounding islands) was no longer governed by Orthodox bishops, which was nothing but a defensive measure of the Order.

However, this state changed by 1438/9, after the unification (Unitism) of the two churches (Greek-Orthodox and Latin-Catholic) in the Synod of Ferrara-Florence. So, the Metropolis of Rhodos remained Orthodox, while a second, Latin-Catholic bishopric was established, with subordinates in the other islands.

Unitism was accepted by the Rhodian Church, since it seemed not to touch any dogmatic issues and only recognized administrative dominance of the Catholic Church and the Grandmaster over the Orthodox. It also seemed that the majority of Rhodian citizens, having been deeply affected by the western way of life, accepted.

Unitism easily, unlike the population of rural Rhodos, who remained faithful to their religious tradition and the Orthodox dogma. Minor riots were common in the villages, and in two occasions the Uniate metropolitan was forced to reproach priests and monks who were inciting the people.