The Castle of Arcadia – Kyparissia
The castle of Arcadia is one of the most important sights of the wider area of Kyparissia, which from the 10th century took the name Arcadia. Its creation must have taken place at the end of the 12th – beginning of the 13th century and its construction elements testify that it was a work of the Franks.
The castle is also called “Castle of the Giants”; according to one myth, Kyparissia was created by the Giants, and the size of the boulders from which the castle was built is considered a sign that it was not made by common people.
During Byzantine times it came into the hands of the Paleologi. In 1460 it was conquered by the Turks, who added to the fortification of the Franks. Between 1685 and 1715 it was under Venetian rule and its fortification was further enhanced. Its adventures ended at around 1830, when it came into Greek hands. Today it attracts thousands of tourists, who come to enjoy the great view it offers toward the whole area.
The Castle of Arcadia in Kyparissia (Long)
The castle of Arcadia is one of the most important attractions not only in Kyparissia, but also in the wider region. Built in a strategic location at the top of a hill, it overlooks the entire area and was justifiably characterized as “the balcony of Kyparissia.”
The castle appears to have been built during the Middle Ages and, based on its technical features, is believed to be a Frankish construction after 1205. Like many Peloponnesian castles, it passed through Frankish, Byzantine, Turkish, and Venetian control.
The castle is also known as the “Castle of the Giants,” owing to the massive stones used in its construction. Today, the site includes a small open-air theatre and a café, hosting cultural events and performances.
The Castle of Dourakis
The Castle of Captain Dourakis is located in Messinian Mani, in the municipal district of Kastania. Built in the 18th century, it is a fine example of Maniot architecture and has been officially listed as a preserved monument.
The Castle of Kalamata
The Castle of Kalamata stands on a hill above the historic centre of the city. Built in the 13th century, it was granted to Geoffrey I Villehardouin and later expanded and fortified.
Over the centuries, it endured attacks by Slavs, Venetians, and Turks. Today, remnants of its fortifications and a small domed structure believed to be a church remain visible.
The Castle of Kalamata (Long)
The castle occupies the site of ancient Fares and later a Byzantine church dedicated to the Virgin Mary Kalomata. During Frankish rule, it became part of the Villehardouin principality and passed through multiple occupations.
After severe damage in the 1986 earthquake, access was restricted. A small theatre built in 1950 continues to host cultural events during summer months.
The Castle of Koroni
Situated at the southeastern edge of the Messenian Bay, the Castle of Koroni was a major Venetian stronghold and commercial centre.
Built in the late 13th century, it features underground passages, thick walls, and square towers. From its summit, visitors enjoy sweeping views of the bay.
The Castle of Koroni (Long)
Koroni flourished under Venetian rule and later endured multiple occupations and reconstructions. The castle contains tombs, cisterns, a Turkish bath, and the ruins of early Christian churches.
At its centre stands the Resalto, a marble column commemorating the fallen Greeks of 1824.
The Castle of Methoni
The Castle of Methoni stands on the southwestern tip of the Peloponnese and is connected to the fortified islet of Bourtzi by an arched bridge.
Built in 1209 by the Venetians, it became one of the most important maritime fortresses in Greece.
The Castle of Methoni (Long)
Covering approximately 93,000 square metres, the castle includes Venetian, Ottoman, and Byzantine structures, including churches, baths, and fortifications.
Despite abandonment in the 19th century, the site remains one of the most atmospheric historical monuments in Greece.
The Castle of Zarnata
The Castle of Zarnata lies near the Valley of Avia and is believed to have been built on an ancient acropolis site.
It played an active role during the Greek War of Independence and is associated with Theodoros Kolokotronis.
The Castle of Zarnata (Long)
Also known as the Castle of Koumoundourakis, Zarnata controlled Mani movements during Ottoman times. The castle features polygonal walls, towers, gates, and churches.
It passed through Turkish, Venetian, and Maniate control and remains an important historical landmark of the region.