Kalymnos Castle of Kasteli

Location: Massouri village

The Castle of Kasteli lies on the western shore of Kalymnos, opposite the small islet of Telendos. This Byzantine fortification was built atop the rocky hill of Cape Aspropoundari to protect the island from sea raids from the Arabs in the 7th century AD. The natural division of the hill into two different levels afforded it a highly advantageous position and allowed Kalymnians to more effectively defend themselves against sea and land attacks.

Today the castle is mostly in ruins. Dilapidated walls still stand on the hill as well as the traces of a few buildings. A variety of archaeological findings have been unearthed in the area of the castle, such as pottery items and tools, that attest to the bustling human activity that it once hosted. Visitors of Kasteli can marvel at this vestige of the island’s history while taking in some breathtaking views of the sea and the neighboring Telendos.

To reach Kasteli Castle, take the main road from the village of Kamari to Arginonta. There is a parking area just as you reach the site of the Castle, where you can leave your car before embarking on a short, 15-minute trek up the hill. On the southeast side of the hill, one can also spot the Church of Panagia of Kasteli, which is worth a visit while in the area.