Exploring Rhodes: Cultural Heritage Education and Intercultural Dialogue

Description

The city of Rhodes stands as living proof of centuries of cultural exchange, combining influences from the ancient Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Italians.

With its well-preserved medieval city, alongside classical ruins and exceptional coastal landscapes, Rhodes is a typical example of long-lasting cultural dynamics in the Mediterranean area and Europe.

This course aims to use the rich historical heritage of Rhodes as a case study on how cultural heritage education can help us foster European identity and intercultural dialogue.

Participants will explore a combination of theoretical seminars, outdoor and indoor workshops, and hands-on activities.

Founded on the principles of experiential learning, participants will develop critical perspectives on heritage conservation, identity, and educational methodologies that promote inclusion and cross-cultural understanding.

Therefore, the course will provide teachers with tools and strategies to inspire students with the richness of European history.

By the end of the course, participants will learn how to preserve their cultural heritage and discover digital tools and strategies for engaging students to connect with their heritage in meaningful ways.

Concept by Nikos Christodoulakis

Learning outcomes

The course will help participants to:

• Deepen their understanding of the multiple cultural communities of the past of Rhodes;
• Provide teachers with approaches to analyze and reflect on diverse cultures;
• Acquire teaching strategies to introduce aspects of cultural heritage in the classroom through experiential and project-based learning;
• Evaluate the relevance of cultural heritage in fostering inclusive communities, and integrating heritage education into broader social contexts;
• Use digital tools and methodologies for engaging students in cultural heritage topics.

Tentative schedule

Day 1 – Introduction to the course

• Introduction to the course, the school, and the external week activities;
• Icebreaker activities;
• Presentations of the participants’ schools;
• Getting familiar with Rhodes in Greek and European cultural heritage;
• Introduction to cultural heritage.

Day 2 – The Ancient Greek Rhodes

• Rhodes’ in Ancient Greece: The Colossus of Rhodes, ancient acropolis, and temples;
• The significance of the Rhodian School of Philosophy;
• Visit to archaeological sites Acropolis of Rhodes (Temple of Apollo, ancient stadium, Odeon).

Day 3 – The knights of Rhodes and medieval heritage

• The Order of the Knights of St. John;
• Exploring the Grand Master’s Palace and Street of the Knights;
• Discover the medieval fortifications and architectural styles.

Day 4 – Heritage for inclusion and sustainability

• Examining Ottoman, Jewish, and Italian influences on Rhodes’ architectural and cultural tradition;
• Addressing questions of heritage in the class;
• Visit the Suleymaniye Mosque, Kahal Shalom Synagogue, and Italian-era buildings.

Day 5 – Building bridges in a multicultural society

• The role of storytelling in addressing heritage;
• Bridging different communities in society: the role of school.

Day 6 – Course closure and cultural activities

• Course evaluation: round-up of acquired competencies, feedback, and discussion.
• Awarding of the course Certificate of Attendance.
• Excursion and other external cultural activities.

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