Rhodes Castle of Kritinia
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Location: Kritinia
On a 131-meter-high hill above the village of Kritinia stand the imposing ruins of the medieval castle of Kritinia, erected by the Knights of Saint John with the aim of defending the area from Ottoman incursions. Thanks to its strategic location, it offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and many neighboring islands.
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Construction began in 1472, during the rule of the Grand Master Giovani Battista Orsini, and was completed some 50 years later, under the supervision of renowned fortifications experts of the time. Combining elements of Byzantine and Western European medieval architecture, it is a rectangular structure with two towers on the eastern side.
Not much has survived besides the outer fortifications, but the coats of arms of three different Grand Masters are still visible on the tower walls. Within the enceinte lie the ruins of a Catholic chapel with 16th-century frescoes, as well as remnants of contemporary buildings, as the castle was also used by the Italians in the early 20th century.
In summer, the fort comes alive with a spectacular two-day medieval festival that delights visitors with spectacular fire tricks and acrobatics, medieval dances, as well as a reenactment of the “king” and “queen” conferring knighthood on one of the participants. Of course, festivities are accompanied by delicious treats, lovingly prepared by the local women.
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