This period, until 1480, has been a very turbulent one, characterized by raids of the Turkish fleet, conflicts with the Republic of Venice and the failure of an effort for a treaty between the Knights and the Ottomans. All defensive works were done under the supervision of the Grandmaster Pierre d’Aubusson himself, who happened to have wide knowledge on mechanics.

The First Siege

23 May 1480. A fleet of about 170 vessels lands 100,000 troops at Trianda Bay (Ixia). The Turkish forces were under the orders of the Grand Vizier and admiral Meshikh Pasha Palaiologos. After a number of repeated assaults from both land and sea, the Turks launch a massive attack, during which, their vanguard of about 2500 janissaries manages to take the Tower of Italy and enter the city. After an internecine battle, the reaction of the Knights forces them to a disorderly retreat. The number of dead Turkish soldiers reached 3,000-4,000. Finally, on 17th August, Meshikh Pasha broke the siege, gathered the remnants of his mighty army and sailed back to Turkey.

The following year, a major earthquake strikes Rhodos only to destroy what the enemy has left standing. The image of the city is deplorable and now the population faces famine as well. The Knights react with strict measures to rebuild the fortifications and relieve the starving people.

Reconstruction Period

1482-1521. During this period Mehmet II dies and his two sons, Bayazid and Djem or Djidjim claim the throne of the Empire. When the first prevails, the latter seeks refuge in Rhodos, where the Knights welcome him willingly, as a threat to the new sultan, who is eventually forced to sign a treaty and pay for Djem’s expenses.