  We report on the electronic band structure, structural, magnetic and thermal
properties of Ce$_2$Rh$_3$Sn$_5$. Ce $L_{\mathrm{III}}$-edge XAS spectra give
direct evidence for an intermediate valence behaviour. Thermodynamic
measurements reveal magnetic transitions at $T_{\mathrm{N1}}\approx$ 2.9 K and
$T_{\mathrm{N2}}\approx$ 2.4 K. Electrical resistivity shows behaviour typical
for Kondo lattices. The coexistence of magnetic order and valence fluctuations
in a Kondo lattice system we attribute to a peculiar crystal structure in which
Ce ions occupy two distinct lattice sites. Analysis of the structural features
of Ce$_2$Rh$_3$Sn$_5$, together with results of electronic band structure
calculations and thermodynamic data indicate that Ce2 ions are in an
intermediate valence state with the ground state electronic configuration close
to 4$f^0$, whereas Ce1 ions are trivalent (4$f^1$) and contribute to the low
temperature magnetic ordering. Thus, our joined experimental and theoretical
investigations classify Ce$_2$Rh$_3$Sn$_5$ as a multivalent charge-ordered
system.
