Bee Μuseum Rhodes | 1-ρόδος-EN

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Roman times – Italian occupation

Beekeeping has its roots in antiquity and it has over the centuries evolved constantly, as well as practiced more systematically. In the past beehives were placed, under the care of the most competent peasants (Beekeepers) into locations close to farm houses or monasteries, into stone, ceramic or wooden tree log beehives (Domestic Beekeeping). Larger and more organized apiaries are uncommon. The multiplication of bee colonies was conducted through the natural process (swarming). Honey is consumed as an exceptional food, as well as for confectionary and pharmaceutical purposes. Furthermore Beeswax candles were also used for light and religious worship.

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1946 – 2000

The first ever Beekeeping school is founded, at the newly liberated Island of Rhodes, by the memorable teacher- beekeeper IOANNIS SEGREDOS. By his personal contribution and encouragement, beekeepers eventually increase in numbers, modernize their techniques, as well as begin to transfer their Bees into European style Beehives (with mobile frames). Consequently, the production of honey, per beehive is multiplied. In addition, beekeepers begin to exploit royal jelly, beeswax, pollen etc. The contribution of veteran beekeepers who transmitted the traditional craft of beekeeping to the younger generation has been invaluable.

Also great was the contribution of the Marshall European Recovery Program, in both infrastructure and knowhow, as well as of the Government later.

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2000 – Until today

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The foundation of the RHODES BEEKEPERS ASSOCIATION initiated by the late Emmanouil Alexakis, facilitates a great increase in the activity of the sector. The first issue raised by the association was the prohibition of aerial spraying of olive orchards by airplanes in Greece, with all possible beneficial consequences to bees and humans.

The contribution of recent Board members of the Association has also been notable: Nikos Melissourgos, Ioannis Niotakis, S. Kiris, A. Kritikos, M. Hadzidimitriou and others.

Also vital, has been the foundation of the Rhodes Beekeepers Cooperative, with the longtime presence of the earlier Chairmen G. Malliotakis, K. Symiakos as well as of the Current Chairman K. Gimoukis.

Finally, the foundation of Melissokomiki Dodekanese SA in 1999, a unique company in the Island, contributed greatly to the development of the sector.

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