Exploring Kastellorizo: The Greek Gem

Situated at the easternmost point of Greece, facing the Turkish coastline, the strategic location of the Dodecanese island group has brought both prosperity and tragedy to Kastellorizo. Nevertheless, this place continues to allure distant travelers.

Greek Travel Discovers Kastellorizo, the Mediterranean Beauty

On the map, the petite gem of Kastellorizo, covering 9km², is merely a dot in the Mediterranean Sea. However, for centuries, Kastellorizo has been the crossroads of major civilizations with a rich and tumultuous history under various empires.

The cultural and natural beauty here never fails to enchant those who have visited.

Megisti is the official name, but for Greeks, Kastellorizo is the familiar name of the smallest island in the Dodecanese group. Its serene beauty, hospitality, and glorious history, along with captivating legends, have put Kastellorizo on the map of Greek tourism, especially after the film Mediterraneo, set in Kastellorizo, won the Oscar in 1991.

Not only that, locals here always manifest themselves as the descendants of Zeus, the god symbolizing hospitality, making travelers always remember Greece, Kastellorizo, where one can embrace a slow-paced life and discard all worldly worries.

In Kastellorizo, the initial impression for distant visitors is the evident past prosperity reflected in the refurbished villas lining the small harbor.

The charming two-story ancient houses in neo-classical style, adorned with vibrant colors (excluding white), built vertically along the high hill, create an image of nobility akin to a palace, overlooking the picturesque blue sea.

Amidst the houses are narrow winding streets around small cobblestone squares adorned with trailing flowers leading down to the harbor.

In certain central neighborhoods of Kastellorizo, the ambiance seems to freeze in the previous century. You can visit the archaeological museum housed within a temple, where the history and various forms of folk art along with distinctive handicrafts of Kastellorizo are showcased.

Embarking on a journey into the past of Kastellorizo from Castello Rosso, the castle established by the Knights of St. John on the red-soiled hill now reduced to remnants, you feel like stepping back into the 14th century.

Ascending the narrow iron staircase where the Greek flag flutters in the wind, you are greeted by the dazzling scene of the harbor below.

Beneath the castle lies a beautifully carved Lycian tomb from the 4th century BC, meticulously preserved.

Towards the East unfolds the breathtaking scenery of Mandraki harbor, while above stands the church of St. Constantine and St. Helena, characterized by its distinctive Gothic vaults.

To the West lies Palaiokastro, the island's most ancient and significant site. Here, traces of an ancient settlement including numerous buildings, rainwater cisterns, and a Dorian fortress dating back to the 3rd century BC are still evident.

In the area known as Limenari, one can marvel at the gigantic stone walls of the ancient Mycenaean citadel.

One of the fascinating experiences in Kastellorizo is the Blue Grotto (also known as Parasta Cave or Fokiali) located south of the island, one of the most beautiful sea caves in the Mediterranean, once a refuge for pirates.

Located 30 minutes by boat from Kastellorizo port, the Blue Cave conceals an impressive palette created by the sunlight's reflection and the enchanting formations of stalactites and stalagmites spanning 75 meters inside the cave, with crystal-clear emerald waters.

The winter charm of Kastellorizo leaves travelers enchanted. However, it is the spring season that truly shines on Kastellorizo. The weather is mild, and the colors come alive as the blue of the sky merges with the greenery and the vibrant pink of bougainvillea blossoms across the island...

Despite its small population, Kastellorizo hosts several traditional events and festivals in May, July, and September. While lacking bustling bars and nightclubs, visitors can still enjoy evenings at the taverns along the harbor...

Information for you:

- Kastellorizo is one hour away from the capital, Athens, by plane.

- Walking is the best way to explore Kastellorizo. There is only one taxi and one bus from the airport to the town and vice versa.

- In June, September, and especially October, the weather in Kastellorizo is mild, the sea is still warm, and the tourists are not too crowded.

As per Tuoi Tre News

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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour