3 Wonderful Medieval Castles in Greece: Fortresses That You Should Visit on the Greek Islands!

Medieval Castles in Greece

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Greece is more than a Mediterranean summer recipe for success: Sun, sea, and sand. It’s a country that is ever so diverse, with a historical significance that spans thousands of centuries. From the ancient times that put Greece on the civilization map, lighting the way for others to follow; through the Medieval times. A period that saw Greece as the center of conquest. A never-ending story until we reach modern times, attracting many tourists eager for a fantastic climate and gorgeous landscapes. Check out these unique Medieval Castles in Greece to learn more!


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Medieval Castles in Greece

medieval castles in Greece
Koules, Heraklion.

The ancient heritage is largely known, but the Greek Medieval era is less so. Not many know that Greece has numerous fortresses and castles.

These, combined with their island setting, are in fact attractions worth visiting on your next Greek island escape. Here are some suggestions including the best examples of Medieval Greece.

You might enjoy reading: 10 Amazing Places to Visit in Greece.

Medieval Castles in Greece: Crete’s Venetian Walls (Heraklion)

Medieval Castles in Greece
Inside the Koules Fortress, in Heraklion, Crete.

Crete’s capital, Heraklion, is essentially a coastal city encased by a series of Venetian Walls. These walls create a fortification around the port, making it a wonderful and unique scene for visitors. Due to these walls, Heraklion is considered one of the largest cities enclosed by such fortified walls.

During the Venetian period around the 13th century, the walls were used to protect it from sieges but today they stand in amazing condition, towering over the city, offering popular walking routes coupled with beautiful scenic views. You can discover them all, leading down to the most impressive monument, the Koules fortress by the sea, on your next visit to Crete.

Visiting Heraklion for a couple of days only? Check this short itinerary.

A very convenient choice for accommodation in Heraklion is staying in a city location that also guarantees peace and quiet from all the city’s hustle and bustle. We personally love this hotel, and it’s one of our best memories in the city.

You might enjoy reading: Accommodation Guide to Heraklion.

Medieval Corfu: Fortresses & Castles

Corfu is another island that has been in the midst of Medieval conquest and came under Venetian rule between the 14th century and the 18th century. Four hundred years of Venetian influence left their mark on the island in the form of some stunning fortresses and castles that are the main attractions for many visitors to admire.

GREECE-CORFU-oldtown-1
Corfu Town.

Specifically, the Old Venetian Fortress and the New Fortress in Corfu Town are the main highlights.

They are part of the culture of Corfu and garrisons of the charm of the island.

Corfu is also home to some gorgeous castles such as Angelokastro and Kassiopi castles of the Byzantine era. Paying them a visit will fill you with awe and will surely create within you visual memories to last a lifetime, with the incredible views that come with them.
Choose a family seaside resort in Corfu for your stay, and plan a day to explore the aforementioned landmarks from there!

You might also enjoy reading more about Corfu in this post.

Medieval Castles in Greece: Folegandros and the Fortified Kastro

Medieval Castles in Greece

Folegandros is a striking island destination in many ways. It provides a refreshing alternative for holidays in the Cyclades with wild natural beauty and a quiet atmosphere. A dramatic island with clifftops and sharp peaks that will leave you utterly amazed.

The Kastro (which means castle in Greek) integrates all the natural characteristics of the place, even when the area is not really medieval… nor a proper castle in itself. But, come on! Who really cares?
Folegandros is one of those islands well worth a visit.

In Folegandros, the Kastro is in the Chora and is right on the edge of an astonishing cliff. Once there, sauntering around its alleyways of cobblestone streets you will not feel the same adrenaline, rather, this settlement creates a sense that it is very enclosed and protected from the elements.

white and blue landscape Folegandros Island, Greece

As this is mostly a local settlement, with small Cycladic houses that retain their traditional character, a design, seaview hotel in Folegandros, can offer you totally relaxing holiday.
Click here for more information about the best places to stay Folegandros.

You might enjoy reading: Day trip from Corfu: A Cruise around Paxos and Antipaxos Islands.


Are you planning your next holidays in Crete, Corfu or Folegandros? Let me know in the comments below!
You might also want to read these posts:
Travel the Greek Islands: How to Get to Naxos
Awesome Airbnbs in Corfu That are Perfect for Your Holidays
Trip to Crete in October: Top Things to Do in Crete in Fall
Day Trip to Chrissi Island, Crete: Super Guide to Visit
Beyond Stunning Airbnbs in Santorini to Check Before your Trip

🧿 PLANNING A LAST-MINUTE TRIP TO GREECE?
Be sure to book accommodation and tours in Greece ahead of time to ensure availability!

🛥️ Book ferry tickets with Ferryhopper.
🛌 Find hotel deals on Booking.com.
🚘 Compare car rental prices with Discover Cars.
💳 In need of money? Use WISE as a digital card and top-up from the app.

Pin this Guide to Medieval Castles in Greece For Your Next Adventures!

Medieval Greece: Fortresses and Castles
Medieval Greece: Fortresses and Castles

About me:

Gabi Ancarola | The Tiny Book

Gabi Ancarola

I moved to Crete in 2016. During these years, I learned so much about the island! In Crete, I juggle being a solo mom, hosting culinary tours, and writing for several travel media. I’ve written for Greek Reporter, published travel guides about Greece, co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete, and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.


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