Public domain, Wikimedia Commons (Tedmek)Landmark· Lesvos· Greece — Dodecanese, Sporades & North Aegean
Mytilene Castle
39° 6.7′ N · 26° 33.8′ E
One of the largest castles in the Mediterranean, sprawling over the pine-covered peninsula between Mytilene's two harbours. Byzantine walls, Genoese Gattilusi towers and Ottoman bastions, hammams, a madrasa and cisterns fill an afternoon's wander with views over both ports to Turkey.
Practical
The castle has an Upper, Middle and Lower Castle; the original phase dates to Justinian I, rebuilt by the Genoese Gattilusi (1355–1462) and the Ottomans after 1462 (Visit Lesvos). Wikipedia gives an area of about 60 acres. Entrance from the Kioski side; contact the Lesvos Ephorate of Antiquities, tel +30 22510 21365. Opening hours vary by season — check before walking up. About 1.5 km walk from the marina; take water and a hat in summer. The Archaeological Museum (new building in Kioski, 39.10681, 26.56156) is on the way.
Best for
Half-day walk ashore from the marina or town quay
Nearby
- Archaeological Museum of Mytilene0.3 NM away
- Ermis Ouzeri (Mytilene)0.3 NM away
- Statue of Liberty (Mytilene Harbour)0.3 NM away
- Mytilene Port of Entry — Port Police & Customs0.4 NM away
- Mytilene Town Harbour Quay0.5 NM away
- Ancient Theatre of Mytilene0.7 NM away
- Mytilene Provisions — Supermarkets & Ermou Street Market0.7 NM away
- Mytilene Marina (Setur Marina Mytilini)0.8 NM away