Castle of Chora on Kythira

The Castle of Kythera, also known as the "Fortezza," stands as the island's most iconic monument, offering a glimpse into its rich history. Located in Chora, the castle was built in the 13th century during Venetian rule and strategically positioned to oversee the Ionian, Aegean, and Cretan seas, earning it the nickname the "Eye of Crete."

History and Architecture

The castle was constructed in several phases over the centuries, with the most significant developments occurring in 1503 under Venetian supervision. During this period, the Venetians reinforced and expanded the fortress, leaving behind a monumental facade. The entrance to the castle is marked by the "fossa," a tunnel that once featured the Venetian emblem of the Lion of St. Mark, though it was destroyed by the French in 1797, along with the Nobility Book and several coats of arms.

Key Highlights to See

On the left side of the entrance, you'll find the old prison, which offers a glimpse into the fortress's past as a place of confinement. Further along, on the southwest side, you’ll come across the massive Venetian reservoir, a remarkable structure with domes and arches, showcasing the engineering expertise of the Venetians.

In the heart of the castle, you’ll discover several ruins of two-storey houses. These once housed a community of 200 residents, who lived here until the last inhabitant left during the occupation. A short walk further will bring you to the gunpowder magazine, a heavily fortified building with walls over a meter thick. Close by is the Church of Pantokratoras, which is adorned with ancient murals that add to the historical ambiance of the site.

The castle also houses the Church of Mirtidiotissa, originally the Catholic "Our Lady of the Latins," which was later transformed into an Orthodox church in 1806. Nearby is the Church of Panaghia Orfani, which kept sacred relics from the Monastery of Agarathos during the Turkish occupation of Crete. This area also served as a safe haven for the icon of Mirtidiotissa during times of pirate raids until it was returned to the Monastery of Mirtidia in 1842.

The Historical Archive of Kythera is housed in the castle’s former headquarters, preserving the island's rich cultural heritage for future generations to discover.

Cannon Displays & Legends

Scattered throughout the castle are several cannons from different periods, including the Venetian, Russo-Turkish, and English eras. One of the most fascinating aspects of the castle is its association with two miracles of Mirtidiotissa. The first involves a ship carrying precious metal for the icon’s dress, which was threatened by pirates but miraculously escaped harm. The second miracle occurred in 1829 when lightning struck the castle, passing in front of the icon and the nearby gunpowder magazine without causing any damage.

A Walk-Through Time

Beyond the main fortress, the northern wall of the castle encloses the Klistos Vourgos, a vibrant area with additional churches and houses. These elements together make the Castle of Kythera a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and travelers looking to immerse themselves in the island's storied past.