Castles
Visiting Greece is an experience where myth and tradition, history, and culture play a leading role. A country needs to be able to show its history to the world and make people want to know about it. Like its Mediterranean neighbours, Greece has been under the influence of diverse civilizations over the centuries with traces of them left across the country for anyone to see.
Starting from the Mediaeval times, the Byzantine period, the Francs, the Ottomans, and the Venetians – cultures that influenced this land and its people – not only helped shape the country that is today Greece, the continent that is today Europe, but also us all the people living here. Greece presents its castles and welcomes visitors to them, laying stress on a different aspect of its history.
The majestic castle on Rhodes Island in the East; Spinalonga in Crete, boasting a rich and controversial history, in the South; the Byzantine city-fort of Monemvasia, Peloponnese, in the West; and the castle of Kavala in the North: the list of castles in Greece, including the above, numbers 480. The above monuments date from the Early Byzantine period (5th century A.D.) until the 19th century.
Discover the myths and tales of battles and chivalry in a country not known till now for this part of its cultural past. These destinations are perfect for a family holiday and taking into consideration Greece’s mild Mediterranean climate, they are visitable all year round. So, discover the so far less-known parts of Greece!
The Ancient, Byzantine, and Medieval castles are scattered all over the country, and they could be the perfect backdrop for a holiday. In the Peloponnese, discover the castles in Mystras, Methoni, Koroni, Monemvasia, Niokasto, Kyparissia, Kalamata, Chlemoutsi, and Palamidi. They are in top condition and their history is rich with tales of locals who were infamous for their strength and tenacity. In the Ionian Sea, you can visit the castles of Zakynthos, of Assos in Kefalonia, Grivas in Lefkada, and the fort on Corfu. In the Aegean Sea, there are numerous well-preserved castles on the islands of Naxos, Lesvos, Chios, Evia, Skyros, Skopelos, Rhodes, and Karpathos.
Head South to Crete for a visit to the castles of Gramvousa, Frangokastelo, Rethymnon, Heraklion, Fodele, and the famous Spinalonga Island which was a leper community in the past. Last, but not least, the North of Greece is a crossroads of civilizations where you can find some of the most impressive castles in the country, such as the ones in Halkidiki, Kavala, Alexandroupoli, Thessaloniki, and Edessa, to name but a few.
This is just another part of Greece’s rich history and heritage that Greeks wish to share with the world; a heritage that includes the passage of different civilizations that have left their mark in this country, enveloped in myth and waiting to be discovered. Set out on this journey and be part of something truly special that will change once and for all your image of Greece as you have known it so far.