Kastro in Skiathos

On an impressive rock at the top of the north lies Skiathos' old capital Kastro. It is believed that Kastro began to be built as early as the 14th century. It is difficult to imagine how they managed to build a town in such an inaccessible place, the rock lies high above the sea and three of its four sides slope steeply into the sea.

Kastro is a perfect excursion destination, partly for the fantastic views, partly for the interesting history of Kastro, partly because there is a taverna here, and because the beach really attracts swimming.

View of Kastro beach from the rock where the old capital of Skiathos was located.

Kastro is located about 10 kilometres from Skiathos Town. There are two ways to get to Kastro, independently by car or scooter, or by excursion boat. The road down is very steep, bordering on unpleasant. I wouldn't drive a car the whole way down, but it works reasonably well with a scooter.

The road down to Kastro.

The rock where Kastro lies.

From Kastro you had complete control over any invaders. The only way into Kastro was via a drawbridge, when the enemy approached the drawbridge was pulled back into the defensive wall. It looks impregnable, but some still managed to take the rock.

The stairs leading up to Kastro.

The Venetians conquered Kastro in 1453 and occupied all of Skiathos until 1538 when the Turks took over. The Turks held on until Greece was liberated in 1821. Kastro was abandoned in 1829 when the inhabitants moved to the coast and founded Skiathos Town. Today, not much remains of Kastro, almost all the houses are destroyed and large parts of the defensive wall are gone. There are only a few churches left, one of which looks like the Phantom's Cave. In one of the churches we have seen Jesus resurrected.

Resurrection of Jesus in one of the churches in Kastro.

The Phantom's Cave in Kastro.

Although not much remains of Kastro, it is an impressive place that you simply cannot miss. The enchanting view alone is worth the entire trip, just like the beach below the rock. Especially when you are hot and sweaty after the walk and get to throw yourself into the cooling sea. Above the beach is a taverna that serves simple dishes.

The taverna above the beach in Kastro.

The beach seen from the taverna.

Kastro beach.

Do not miss Evangelistria Monastery, which you can read about here »

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