Kastro

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Kastro was the biggest medieval town from the twelfth century till 1830. It was built upon a cliff sticking out into the ocean at the north end of the island. Just a narrow strip connected the cliff to the island itself. Here there was built a strong wall with a solid door. The cliff is very high with steep sides. Therefore the people who lived there had a secure town which was easy to defend against enemies.

 
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At its largest there were about 300 houses and 22 churches here. Today just one church remains and the ruins of a few others. Parts of the defence wall facing the main island also remain. There are also a couple of restored private houses here.

 
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The view from the peak of the cliff is fantastic. One can look over to the mainland and see the north end of Skopelos. One can also look down at the pebbled beach just down from the town. This is where the boats come in. The boat owners just drive their boats up on the beach and put down a narrow gangway at the beach itself. Here is also a small taverna. The walk up to the town is great even if one gets quite warm and sweaty because the road is rather steep. Bring good shoes. Also take a look at the little church in town.

 
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The best preserved church

 
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Inside the church

It is also possible to walk here from Skiathos town. The track is marked but the trip takes about 3 hours each way. It is also possible get here by the popular jeep trips arranged by the travel agencies. But also then it is necessary to walk the last bit to the town itself.

Back to Lalaria beach Further on  to More photos from Skiathos
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If you have any tips, advice or memories from island strolling, or if there is a question you haven’t found the answer to, use the discussions group.
Thanks to Vebjørg Skjelmerud, Oslo for her translation into English!
© Jan Bergtun, 02.10.2001 Updated, 07.18.2007
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