Introduction

A tiny island, Kastellorizo is a place where your only means of transport are your own legs, and the pace is slow and laid-back. The people are typical islanders: friendly and curious, and even thought their lives are not the easiest on this isolated island, they try to liven things up with romantic songs of the past and many festivals.

At first glance, you'll probably think that this is a place that has always been like it is today, but surprisingly, this was once of the most glorious places of the Aegean sea. Exploring the island, you'll find many interesting remains of the past: the only witnesses of what once was.

History

In ancient times, the island was called Megisti. According to legend, the first settler was Megisthus, a Cretan prince, but archaeologists have found evidence of Neolithic settlements on the island. It was conquered by Rhodes in the 8th century, and was to become an important commercial center with 15 000 inhabitants.

The real greatness of the island was during the Turkish rule. When it stood clear to the citizens that fighting the Turks was no use, they managed to get special privileges when the island came under Turkish rule in 1537. The local fleet commerced with many cities in Asia Minor, as well as with other Greek islands.

When the war of Independence broke out in 1821, the men of Kastellorizo fought hard, but the island was not to be freed until 1948. It had then been used by the French as a base for their fleet in the first World War, and during the second World War it had been occupied by Italy.

What to See

A striking feature of the islands only village, Megisti, is the brightly painted houses. This goes back to the Byzantine and Turkish time, when the colours of the house would display the status of its mistress.

In Megisti there is an archaeological/folklore museum worth a visit, as well as a few churches of special interest. The Church of Ag (St) Constantinos and Eleni was built partly with materials from the ancient Apollo temple in 1835. The Church of Ag Nikolaos was built on top of the temple.

The Castle of the Knights dates back to the 14th century and was built on an ancient temple site. This castle gave the island its current name since it was built on red rocks: Castello Rosso. There are also some ancient ruins here, as well as the remains of a Turkish bath.

Parastras is a stalagmite cave worth a visit.

What to Do

Katellorizo is a great place for snorkelling, fishing and windsurfing. Apart from that, just relax and enjoy the peace and quiet!

If you are here on July 20, you'll be able to parttake in the celebrations of the Prophet Elias, when it is customary to jump into the sea!

Beaches

There are a few beaches here, and it is a good idea to take a walk and find your own little bay.

Nightlife

You won't find any bars or discos here, but staying up late on one of the taverns or in the cafes is a nice way to spend your evenings.

Food

The food served here is traditionally Greek. The local specialty is a pie made of chickpeas.

Shopping

There are a few shops that sell ceramics, textiles and local honey.

Getting Around

Only by foot!

Getting There

The best idea is probably to get a direct flight to Rhodes, and take the boat from there.