28 March 2024

10 Amazing Greek Castles That Stand Out

In Greece, approximately 1,200 medieval and later castles, fortresses, and towers are preserved, constituting an important part of the country's historical and cultural heritage. These architectural masterpieces reflect the diverse history of Greece and bring to light impressive stories from their epic past.

Some of these have been recognized as among the best-preserved buildings in Europe, making them true jewels of Greek architectural heritage. Below is a list including ten of the most impressive castles throughout Greece.

1. Monemvasia

monemvasia

Monemvasia stands out as one of the most significant medieval fortress-cities in Greece, hosting one of the most beautiful castles worldwide. Located in the Peloponnese, this Byzantine heritage reaches for the skies, as for centuries it has stood tall above the azure horizon, at an altitude of approximately one hundred meters above sea level.

The rock of Monemvasia is connected to the mainland via a narrow road, constituting a natural anchor that provided effective protection against pirate attacks. The city itself and its fortress date back to 583 AD, forming an integral part of Byzantine history, under the Byzantine Emperor Maurice.

2. Rhodes

Rhodes

Also known as the Palace of the Grand Master or the Castle of the Knights, the castle is located on the northern side of the medieval town of Rhodes, in the Dodecanese.

It is the most significant remaining monument of the Knights Hospitaller and was built on top of a previous Byzantine acropolis, which served both as a military headquarters and a fortress.

Construction began during the 14th century by the Knights of Rhodes, who held the island from 1309 to 1522. After the Ottoman Empire's occupation of the island, the palace was converted into a fortress.

The Kingdom of Italy took control in 1912, and the Italians reconstructed the palace intending to turn it into a summer residence for King Victor Emmanuel II. Later, it was also used for this purpose by Benito Mussolini.

3. Nafplio

Nafplio destination

The Castle of Nafplio, also known as Palamidi, is one of the remarkable constructions of the Venetian period, completed in 1714 in just three years. It stands as an example of architectural excellence and possibly the highest expression of Venetian fortifications in Greece.

Constructed in the Baroque style, Palamidi sits atop a 216-meter hill that bears its name. Its location provides significant strategic advantages, as it overlooks the city of Nafplio, the harbor, the fortress of Acronauplia, and the entrance to the Gulf of Argolis.

After its capture by the Turks in 1715, the castle gained historical significance, and in 1822, during the Greek War of Independence, it was recaptured by the Greeks.

4. Mystras

Mystras is a fortified town located on Mount Taygetos, west of ancient Sparta. Its construction dates back to 1249 by a Frankish prince. After the period of Ottoman rule, this significant Greek Byzantine monument was abandoned in 1830, as the population gradually began to move to the new city of Sparta.

The town occupies a position on a steep hill, dominating the valley of the Eurotas River. The fortress is divided into three distinct zones: the Upper Town, the Lower Town, and the Outer Town. Additionally, there is a Frankish citadel prevailing within the fortress walls. Several Byzantine churches are housed within the complex, which have been restored and are accessible for visitation.

5. Mesta

mesta

Mesta is one of the primary settlements of Chios, rich in history and culture. Apart from mastic production, known as a cosmopolitan tradition of the region, it hosts an exceptionally well-preserved medieval settlement, consisting of one of the most impressive fortified villages in Greece.

The architecture of the village is characterized by narrow alleyways leading to cobblestone squares, while the surrounding fortification provided refuge during times of pirate raids. The village's shape is pentagonal, and some of its streets resemble true mazes, offering a unique journey into the past.

The building we now call "Mesta" dates back to the Genoese period of Chios, which lasted from 1346 to 1566, representing a significant chapter in the region's history.

6. Molyvos

lesvos molivos

Known as the Castle of Mytilene, this impressive fortress is the second most important historical monument of Lesbos. Its present form was mainly shaped during the 14th century by the interventions of the Genoese, following the period of the Ottomans who added elements according to their own style.

Built on a hill, the Castle bears indications that an ancient acropolis was raised at this location since the 5th century BC. The Byzantines commissioned the construction of a fortress at this site, while the Genoese began the reconstruction of the Castle in 1373.

7. Kalamata

Kalamata destination

The Castle of Kalamata constitutes an impressive combination of history and architecture, as it was built on a steep hill at the northwest edge of the city.

Alongside many other fortifications, there are indications of an ancient acropolis inhabited from prehistoric times until the times before the Trojan War, while later a Byzantine fortress was housed there. However, the most visible today are the ruins of a castle that was rebuilt in the early 13th century during Frankish rule.

Inside the castle lies a church dating back to the 6th century BC dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The icon of the Virgin Mary in the church became known as "Kalomata" (meaning "beautiful eyes"), a name that later transformed into "Kalamata," giving its name to the church, the castle, and the city itself.

8. Ioannina

ioannina kastro

The impressive fortress of Ioannina in the heart of Epirus is an architectural testament to the rich history of the region. Built at an altitude of 480 meters, it offers stunning views of the tranquil Lake Pamvotida. Its appearance dates mainly from the later period of the Ottoman Empire, yet it retains elements that are reminiscent of the preceding Byzantine era.

This historic stronghold was founded in the 6th century BCE by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian. Ioannina experienced a significant resurgence after the Fourth Crusade, when many prominent Byzantine families fled Constantinople and found refuge there. In 1430, the Ottomans captured Ioannina, and between 1430 and 1868, the city served as the administrative center of the Pashalik of Ioannina. During this period, the most notable figure was Ali Pasha.

9. Nafpaktos

nafpaktos

The Castle of Lepanto, also known as the Castle of Nafpaktos, is an earthly treasure of Greek history and an aristocratic representation of fortified architecture.

In the 16th century, the Battle of Lepanto, one of the most significant naval engagements in history, occurred in the waters just in front of this castle. It was the moment when the European federation managed to almost completely suppress the Ottoman naval power.

The ancient walls of the castle highlight its antiquity, while its current structure and additions date back to the Venetian rule.

A circular wall surrounds the top of the hill, while two wings extend in two directions. These towers converge at the entrance to the port, providing superior protection to the inhabitants of Nafpaktos during conflicts. This architecture is a unique example of ancient defense.

10. Astypalaia

Astypalaia

The impressive Venetian castle of Astypalaia, also known as the Querini Venetian Castle, rises with imposing presence from the top of the hill in the stunning Chora of the island. Constructed from dark stones, it creates a stark contrast with the white architecture of the surrounding houses.

The history of this castle is tightly connected with the battles for power among the Venetians, the Byzantines, and the Ottoman rulers. Its construction is attributed to Giovanni Querini, a noble Venetian who became the governor of Astypalaia after the fall of Constantinople in 1204. For about three hundred years, the Venetians governed from this castle, each leader adding their own modifications to the structure. Every family left its own mark on the stone with its family crest. The castle of Astypalaia was partially reconstructed after the earthquake that shook the island in 1956.

The medieval settlement stretches along the mountain, offering an unforgettable panoramic view towards the Chora of Astypalaia.

The information was retrieved from the source. : iefimerida

https://www.iefimerida.gr/travel/deka-apo-ta-pio-entyposiaka-kastra-stin-ellada