Mylopotamos Castle

Kythira, Greece

Mylopotamos Castle in Kythira was built by the Venetians in 1566. The carved lion of Saint Markos, a symbol of Venetian domination, still adorns the central gate of the castle. The lion holds a book with the inscription: PAX TIBI MARCE EVANGELISTA MEUS, MDLXV ('Peace to you Evangelist Marco, 1565'). Obviously there was an older settlement there, since at least the 14th century, that gradually was developed and after the destruction of other parts of the island in 1537, it became more impoortant and was rebuilt. The position controls the west coast of Kythira and the Ionian sea, but the primary usage of the fortification was rather the protection of the local population.

 Narrow streets and semi-ruined two-storey houses mostly with flat roofs, travel the visitors back in time. The ground floor of the houses used to serve as warehouses while access to the upper floor was through an external stone staircase. Inside the castle there are the remains of nine single-aisle churches of the 16th-17th century decorated with Byzantine and post-Byzantine frescos.

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Kythira, Greece
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Founded: 1566
Category: Castles and fortifications in Greece

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4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

orbdog (14 months ago)
Excellent opportunity to explore ruins on your own with few restrictions. Mostly the bullrings and interiors are unlocked and open, allowing you see and experience what it may have been like to live in a bustling, ancient village. Lookout point overseeing the valley towards the sea is breathtaking. Worth the time to experience. BEWARE the road leaving the castle is very narrow and larger cars would not be able to traverse between the buildings. Had a Citroen C3 and there were only centimeters to spare.
Julian Jordaan (16 months ago)
A real gem if you like historical landmarks. Most of the “rooms” are accessible and there is no fee to enter. Just walk around. Great views from the edge of the cliff
Christos Nasmis (17 months ago)
It's a old and big castle with incredible view. Feels spooky because it's abandoned but it has an wow factor since its hanging over a steep cliff.
Elaine Borges-Ibanez (2 years ago)
A narrow street leads through the village , then the road continues winding up and down the mountainside to Limnionas beach. The village itself is 50% stone ruins, alongside well maintained traditional little whitewashed house. I enjoyed a walk there from Mylopotamos and also painted the view if the village from the opposite side of the valley.
Stavros Apostolou (3 years ago)
Unexpected. A medieval fortified settlement from the byzantine era to the venetian times. You can see the walls, churches, houses in a very decent preservation degree. Still needs restorations.
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