Information and travel guide to Kastelorizo
Kastelorizo, a charming island nestled in the Dodecanese group at the Aegean Sea’s south-eastern tip, serves as a Mediterranean sentinel and a crossroads of Europe and Asia. Its proximity to the coast of Anatolia underscores its geographical and cultural significance.
Kastelorizo is a growing tourist destination and its infrastructure so far meets the needs of its visitors. There are hotels, studios and rooms for rent, all located in the two natural bays, the main port and Mantraki bay.
This smallest and most remote of the Dodecanese islands is nestled at the crossroads of continents, lying just a stone’s throw from the Turkish coast. Despite its diminutive size, Kastelorizo boasts a grandeur that belies its physical dimensions, with a past woven from threads of mythology, ancient civilizations, and the ebb and flow of empires.
The island’s landscape is made of rugged cliffs, serene coves, and the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. Its colourful harbour town, characterized by neoclassical houses painted in a palette of pastel hues, greets visitors with a warmth and hospitality that captures the essence of Greek island life.
For travellers seeking solace away from the hustle and bustle of mainstream tourist destinations, Kastelorizo offers a unique opportunity to immerse in the tranquillity of island life, where the pace slows down, and the beauty of nature and human kindness takes centre stage. Whether you’re drawn to explore its historical depths, revel in its natural beauty, or simply soak up the serene atmosphere.
History
Antiquity
According to archaeological findings, the island has been inhabited since Neolithic times. During the Mycenaean and Minoan periods, it served as a trading post for Crete (*emporion*) due to its strategic location, maintaining trade connections with Cyprus.
It was colonised by the Dorians, who, according to Roman historians Titus Livius and Pseudo-Scylax, named it Megisti. The Dorians also built the acropolis at Palaeokastro, on the western side of the harbour. In the 4th century BC, the island experienced Persian conquest, and from the mid-4th century BC to the Roman period, it became part of the Rhodian state.
During this time, it served as an important transshipment centre due to its strategic location and safe harbour, and it was governed by *epistates*, or Rhodian overseers.
Roman Era
The rule of Rhodes was later overthrown by the tyrant Idrieus of Halicarnassus, followed by the naval commanders of Alexander the Great. After Alexander’s death, all Aegean islands came under the control of Ptolemy I, and in 1306, they were occupied by the Romans.
Byzantine Era
During the Byzantine period, the island was part of the *Theme of the Cibyrrhaeots*. In medieval times, the island prospered as a maritime centre. It suffered significant damage during the Second and Third Crusades in 1147 and 1189, respectively, as Crusaders moved through the area by sea.
In 1306, the island came under the control of the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem. It was during this period that the *Castel Rosso* was built, from which the island derives its modern name, Kastelorizo.
Over time, the island was occupied by various powers: in 1306 by the Knights of Rhodes, in 1440 by the Egyptians, in 1461 by the Catalans, in 1470 by the King of Naples, and in 1480 it was abandoned due to fear of the Turks. It was reclaimed in 1498 by the King of Naples, and in 1512, the Spanish flag flew over the island. In 1522, when Rhodes fell to the Ottomans,
Kastelorizo remained under Christian control until 1570, when the Venetians took over. During her journey to the Holy Land to find the True Cross, Saint Helena is said to have passed through the island, building a small church, which was later covered by the imposing Church of Saints Constantine and Helen, the island’s patron saints.
Ottoman Period
In 1522, the island peacefully submitted to Ottoman rule but was granted certain privileges, allowing it to develop economically and culturally, with local elders managing governance. During the Greek War of Independence in 1821, women and children were evacuated to Kasos, Karpathos, and Amorgos to escape Turkish reprisals.
In 1913, the islanders overthrew Ottoman rule. Although the London Protocol of 1830 returned the Dodecanese to Ottoman control after Greece’s successful liberation, Kastelorizo maintained its maritime vitality.
Modern Times
In 1915, during World War I, Kastelorizo was occupied by the French, who used it as a naval base. In 1920, they ceded it to the Italians for a fee, and it was renamed Castelrosso. During World War II, the island served as a strategic military base, and in 1943, it suffered severe bombardment by the Germans, leading many residents to flee, particularly to Australia.
The island was finally integrated into the Greek state on 7 March 1948, along with the rest of the Dodecanese.
Among those who remained on the island were Despina Ahladiotou, known as the “Lady of Ro,” and her blind mother. Defying the difficulties, Despina remained on her island, collaborating with the Sacred Band that eventually liberated the Dodecanese.
For 40 years, she raised the Greek flag daily, providing significant national service for which she was honoured by the Academy of Athens, the Hellenic Navy, the Hellenic Parliament, the National Bank of Greece, municipalities, associations, and other organizations.
Attractions and sights to see
Kastelorizo is also renowned for its wealth of Byzantine and post-Byzantine historical sites. Among these, the ancient acropolis of Megisti, perched on Palaiokastro hill, stands out as the island’s most ancient and significant monument, featuring ancient structures and water reservoirs.
Other historical marvels include the Cyclopean Walls scattered across the island and the medieval Castle of the Knights of Saint John, which offers breath taking views extending from the harbor to the Asian Minor shores.
Cultural exploration on the island extends to the Archaeological and Folk Art Museum located in the Mosque, where visitors can delve into the island’s rich history and traditions, spanning from ancient times to modernity, through archaeological finds and folk art items, including a showcase on traditional sponge fishing.
Ancient Acropolis of Kastelorizo
It is situated on the western side of the island, built atop the hill of Vivla, on the ruins of the ancient Doric Acropolis. It can be accessed by road or via a relatively challenging path that offers panoramic views of the entire island, the Mediterranean Sea, and its surrounding islets. It is the island’s most significant and oldest monument, built in the 4th century BC and covering an area of about 6,000 square metres. The site has been designated a Listed Monument by the Ephorate of Antiquities of the Dodecanese.
The Ancient Acropolis of Megisti served as the central fortified settlement of the island, around which the community developed, with many buildings and cisterns that became abandoned during World War I. The site also included five Middle Byzantine period churches, single-aisled with vaulted roofs, three of which (Agia Lesa, Agios Nikolaos, and Panormitis) were destroyed by bombings.
The castle remained in continuous use from antiquity through the Hospitaller period, though the Knights of St. John made no alterations, unlike other Dodecanese castles. It underwent modifications and additions during the Roman era and again during World War II by the Italians, who constructed observation posts and bunkers. Inside the castle, remnants of buildings, carved tomb ruins, Neolithic tools, and Doric inscriptions—one of which includes the name “Megisti”—have been preserved.
Notable are the ten well-preserved cisterns, known as “acheres,” from the Turkish period, carved into the limestone rock. Within the castle’s enclosure are the churches of Panagia Palaeokastritissa (1858) and Agios Stefanos (1850), which are connected by a stunning mosaic floor dating back to 1858.
Castle of the Knights of St. John
Also known as the Castle of Megisti, this fortress stands between the two harbours of the island, perched atop an imposing red rock at the location of Castello Rosso. The path to the castle is uphill, winding through picturesque cobbled alleys. A narrow iron staircase leads to the bastion, where the flag waves proudly, offering a unique view of the harbour, Mandraki, and the Turkish coastline.
The medieval castle has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout its long history. It was reconstructed in 1380 by the Knights of the Order of St. John on the ruins of an ancient fortress, using its materials, which gave the castle its current name.
The form in which it survives today is a remnant of the reconstruction carried out in 1451 by the Spanish from Aragon. Thus, the castle of Kastelorizo is one of the few in the Dodecanese that is not considered “Johannite” but “Frankish.” It has been designated a Listed Monument by the Ephorate of Antiquities of the Dodecanese, and today, the remains include a tower and the outer bastion.
Next to the entrance of the bastion is the church of St. Nicholas (15th century), featuring a stone bell tower. Inside, it once contained rare 17th-century frescoes, part of which have been preserved and are displayed in the Diachronic Museum of Megisti. Nearby, there is a recently renovated windmill and the ruins of a Turkish hammam.
Agios Georgios Vouniou
A climb of 401 steps from the port leads to the Monastery with the catacomb of Saint Charalambos. It is located in the area of Palaeokastro and is surrounded by large natural stone slabs. In 1759, a church was built here by Saint Anthimos. Inside the church, there is a hole that leads to a cave-catacomb with a spring and a mural of the saint at the back. The monastery contains the catacomb of Saint Charalambos, which has been designated a Protected Monument by the Ephorate of Antiquities of the Dodecanese.
Lycian Tomb
This is an ancient tomb, dating back to around the 4th century BC, carved into the rock. The exterior is decorated, while inside, there are funerary beds on three sides. It is situated directly opposite Lycia in Turkey, where many similar tombs are found, likely symbolizing the good relations with the Asia Minor coast during that period.
Many stories circulate about who the tomb belonged to, one of which suggests it was the tomb of King Megisteas, from whom the island of Megisti might have taken its name—though this is not certain. The tomb is easily accessible, located close to the harbour, and visitors can access it at any time of the day free of charge.
Archaeological and Folklore Museum
Housed in a white historic building above the restored mosque, near the ruins of the Castle. During the Frankish period, it served as the outer bastion of Castello Rosso. Its exhibits include archaeological finds of priceless value from various periods of antiquity, 17th-century frescoes, and items of folk art. Notable exhibits include a finely crafted bronze statue of Bacchus, a headless marble statue of the goddess Hygeia from the 3rd century BC, Byzantine plates, a Byzantine silver coin (613-638 AD) from the era of Heraclius, 17th-century frescoes from the church of Saints Dimitrios and Nikolaos of the castle, and a crystal lighthouse of French construction from 1913.
Cathedral of Saints Constantine & Helen
Located in the most prominent position on the island, above Mandraki. The cathedral has been closely tied to the social and cultural life of Kastellorizo since its founding (1835) to the present day. It is built in the style of a three-aisled vaulted basilica with rich iconography, marble screens, and a towering marble bell tower. The roof is supported by twelve granite columns, which were transported from the Temple of Apollo in Patara, Lycia, Asia Minor. The Santorpeia Urban School is also housed in the church courtyard.
Blue Cave
The Blue Cave, located on the southeastern side of Kastellorizo, is approximately 3 nautical miles from the harbour and can only be accessed by small boat. It is also known as “Parasta’s Hole”—named after its discoverer—or “Fokiali” due to the Monachus monachus seals that inhabit it. The cave was formed during the Pleistocene epoch due to karstic erosion of the limestone that covers much of the island. It is considered the largest and most beautiful of the underwater caves in Greece, renowned worldwide and one of the Mediterranean’s most stunning natural landmarks.
The entrance is almost invisible, as it is just a metre above the water. It is so small that entry is only possible with a low boat, favourable weather conditions, and passengers having to bend down. The cave’s dimensions include a height of 35 metres, a width of 40 metres, and an internal length of 75 metres.
The second chamber of the cave features a pebbled section that serves as a haven for the Mediterranean monk seal, Monachus monachus. Inside, it boasts a rich array of stalactites, illuminated by the sun’s rays, creating a unique and spectacular display. Besides the seals, the cave is home to thousands of wild pigeons and seabirds, while its depths host unique and rare varieties of fish.
Islet of Ro
West of the island lies the small islet of Ro, dedicated to the “Lady of Ro,” Despina Ahladiotou (1898-1982), its sole resident, who raised the Greek flag every morning for decades. The islet can be visited by chartered boat, famous for its history.
Santorpeia Urban School
Santorpeia Urban School is located in the Chorafoi district, within the courtyard of the Metropolitan Church of Saints Constantine and Helen, to which it is connected by a traditional mosaic pathway known locally as *kokhlaki*. Notably, the site still bears the crater caused by a shell, likely from World War II. The school is a remarkable neoclassical building, constructed in 1903 with funds donated by Loukas Santorpe, following the design of the University of Athens. Loukas Santorpe (1852-1912) was born in Kastelorizo and was a great benefactor of the island.
The school has educated generations of students, providing a high standard of education and fulfilling the benefactor’s vision to sustain the island’s population and prevent it from becoming deserted. Santorpeia Urban School remains the island’s most important educational institution, and today it houses the primary, middle, and high schools of Kastelorizo.
The Puzzle Museum
Since 2020, Kastelorizo has been home to the first Puzzle Museum in Greece, and one of the few worldwide. It caters to both young and old, aiming to inspire visitors through unusual mechanisms and methods for solving puzzles. Founded by mathematician Pantazis Choulis, the museum houses over 4,000 puzzles, many of which are his own inventions and creations. Each guided tour includes an overview of the various types of puzzles, such as sequential, interlocking, folding, matching, and many others.
The museum is housed in the founder’s family home, a two-story mansion built in 1887, located in the Chorafoi area. Kastellorizo has a strong tradition of puzzles, as evidenced by 19th-century puzzle magazines preserved in the island’s Folklore Museum, numerous poetic riddles published in the “Kastelorizian News” newspaper of the 1960s, and Greece’s regular representation in the International Puzzle Organization by two highly acclaimed Greek puzzle enthusiasts, both with roots in Kastelorizo.
Historically, Greece has a proven tradition in puzzles. Examples include Archimedes’ *Ostomachion*, the first three-dimensional puzzle known to humanity, the *Riddle of the Sphinx*—one of the earliest verbal puzzles—and the use of names like the Labyrinth, Pandora’s Box, and the Gordian Knot for modern puzzles. In October 2020, the Puzzle Museum of Megisti was designated a European Centre for Science, Technology, and Art.
Local Festivals
Every year, many festivals are held in Kastelorizo in honour of various saints, filled with dance, music, and celebration:
21st May, Feast of Saints Constantine and Helen: As the island’s patron saints, they are celebrated with a grand divine liturgy, followed by a large festival featuring a live orchestra.
20th July, Feast of Prophet Elias: A local tradition involves residents, often joined by tourists, diving into the sea fully clothed on the morning of the eve. This day also commemorates the return of the island’s inhabitants after the end of the Greek War of Independence.
26th July, Feast of Agia Paraskevi: An annual festival is held with local music and dancing. This celebration is very popular and attracts both visitors and many island residents.
27th July, Feast of Agios Panteleimonas: The church is single-aisled with a vaulted roof and a small wooden iconostasis, still in use today. It celebrates the saint’s feast day on 27th July.
15th August, Feast of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary: On the eve, children light large bonfires known as “chalambounes” and jump over them. On the day of the feast, a grand divine liturgy is followed by a procession of the Virgin Mary’s icon through the village streets. The celebrations continue with the Panagia festival in the Chorafoi square, featuring feasting, live music, and dancing.
23rd August, Feast of the Nine Days of the Virgin Mary: A celebration takes place at the Monastery of Panagia in Palaeokastro, featuring an all-night feast with food and music.
These festivals are key moments in the social and cultural life of Kastellorizo, bringing together locals and visitors in vibrant and joyful celebrations.
The capital of the island
The capital Kastelorizo, which gathers all the inhabitants of the island, consists of the districts of Pigadia and Horafia and continues to Mandraki.In Kastelorizo you will do all your movements on foot as there are no cars, motorbikes, buses – there is only one taxi.
The picturesqueness of the landscape upon reaching Kastelorizo is hard to describe. The brightly painted two- and three-story townhouses with their wooden staircases and balconies, the picturesque harbor and the cobbled streets make for a wonderful sight.
The whole settlement is considered preserved and offers the visitor the beauty of a landscape and the feeling of a past glory.
In the past, the city, which is also the port of the island, was its main geophysical advadage as it is located at the maritime crossroads between Europe, the Middle East and Egypt and it was natural for it to generate significant commercial and maritime traffic, which explains the glorious and rich past of Kastelorizos.
The two-story houses gaze out at the sea perched amphitheatrically on the rock slopes, while their colourful shutters and red tiles contrast with the blue sea, composing an image that will win you over immediately.
Beaches
Despite its lack of beaches, Kastelorizo is famed for its exquisite coves, with Mandraki being home to the island’s sole sandy beach. The island’s singular settlement, serving as both the port and capital, is amphitheatrically built around the sea, showcasing colourful neoclassical mansions, impressive churches, and quaint alleyways, making it one of Greece’s most picturesque preserved settlements.
You will swim in the crystal clear, but deep waters in front of the Port Authority and the small port, Mandraki, with its beautiful sandy beach. Around it there are many small islets with the most famous of all being Ro, known by the lady of Ro, whose bust is located at Xorafia of Kastelorizo.
With a chartered boat, you will also pass by the small island of Strogyli, with its beautiful shores, ideal for swimming and with its unique inhabitants, the lighthouse keepers.
Local Cuisine and Gastronomy
Kastelorizo offers a delightful journey through Greek and Mediterranean culinary traditions, emphasizing fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and recipes passed down through generations. The island’s cuisine reflects its rich cultural heritage and the bounty of the Aegean Sea.
Seafood lovers can indulge in grilled octopus and squid, seasoned with olive oil and lemon, or savor the island’s signature dish, lobster pasta, which combines freshly caught lobster with a savory tomato sauce over pasta. Fish soup, made with local fish and seasoned with herbs and lemon, offers a lighter, comforting option.
Meat and vegetable dishes are also prominent, including the classic Greek moussaka, a baked layering of eggplant, potatoes, minced meat, and béchamel sauce, and gemista, tomatoes and peppers stuffed with a flavorful rice and herb mixture. Traditional Greek cheeses like feta and mizithra are essential, either served with meze or in salads and cooked dishes.
For those with a sweet tooth, baklava and kataifi provide syrupy satisfaction with their nut and honey fillings. Greek yogurt with honey is a simpler, yet equally delicious treat, often topped with nuts or fruits for added texture and flavor. Beverages such as ouzo and tsipouro offer a glimpse into Greek drinking culture, perfect as an aperitif or with small dishes, while Greek coffee presents a strong, aromatic option.
When to Go
The best time to visit Kastelorizo is during the late spring to early autumn months, specifically from May to October. During these months, the weather is generally warm and sunny, making it ideal for various outdoor activities such as swimming, exploring, and enjoying boat trips around the island and its neighbouring islets.
Late Spring (May to June): This period is perfect for visitors who prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds. The island’s natural beauty is at its peak, with wildflowers in bloom and the landscape lush and green. The sea temperature starts to warm up, making it comfortable for swimming.
Summer (July to August): These are the hottest and busiest months on Kastelorizo. The island comes alive with visitors, and the weather is typically hot and sunny, with clear blue skies. The sea temperature is very warm, ideal for spending extended periods in the water. If you don’t mind the crowd and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, this is the time to go. Also, several local festivals and events happen in summer, offering a glimpse into the island’s culture and traditions.
Early Autumn (September to October): The temperatures begin to cool down slightly, making it a pleasant time for exploring the island without the intense heat of summer. The water remains warm well into September and even October, allowing for comfortable swimming. The tourist crowd starts to thin out, providing a more relaxed and intimate experience of the island.
Visiting Kastelorizo during these months ensures that you’ll experience the island’s beauty and attractions under the best possible conditions. However, it’s always a good idea to check the local weather forecast and any event schedules before planning your trip to make the most out of your visit.
Getting Around
Getting around Kastelorizo is an easy and enjoyable part of experiencing the island due to its small size. Most of the exploration within the main village and harbor area can be done on foot, allowing visitors to take in the picturesque streets, colorful houses, and waterfront views at a leisurely pace. Walking is not only practical but also offers the chance to discover hidden gems, such as secluded spots for swimming or charming cafes tucked away in quiet corners.
For those interested in visiting more remote areas of the island or exploring its natural attractions like the Blue Cave, boat tours are readily available. These tours provide access to otherwise inaccessible parts of Kastelorizo, including beautiful swimming spots and interesting geological formations along the coastline. Hiring a private boat is also an option for a more personalized adventure, giving visitors the freedom to explore the island’s surroundings at their own pace.
Since Kastelorizo is relatively compact, there’s no need for public transportation, and the absence of cars in many parts of the island adds to its tranquil atmosphere. Whether you’re meandering through the village streets, taking a boat to explore the coast, or simply enjoying the serenity of this remote Greek island, getting around Kastelorizo is a seamless part of the overall experience.
How to get to Kastelorizo
By Air
Flying to Kastelorizo is a convenient and time-saving option for travelers looking to reach this enchanting Greek island. The small airport on the island receives flights from Athens, making it accessible to visitors from around the world.
When booking your flight, consider checking various airlines for competitive prices and flexible schedules. Keep in mind that flight availability may vary depending on the season, so plan ahead to secure your seat.
The short flight from Athens offers wonderful views of the Aegean Sea, adding an extra touch of magic to your journey. Once you land on Kastelorizo, you’ll be greeted by stunning landscapes and charming architecture waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re a solo adventurer or traveling with family and friends, flying into Kastelorizo is a seamless way to kickstart your unforgettable Mediterranean getaway.
By ferry
For those who prefer traveling by sea, taking a ferry is the second option. The journey by ferry offers a different kind of adventure, with routes typically originating from Rhodes, one of the larger Dodecanese islands.
The ferry ride can take several hours, providing a scenic voyage across the Aegean Sea, allowing travelers to soak in the expansive blue waters and possibly spot other islands along the way.
This option is particularly appealing to those who enjoy the romance of sea travel or wish to bring their own vehicle to the island, though it’s worth noting that Kastelorizo’s compact nature makes vehicular transport largely unnecessary.
Private Boats and Charters
For those seeking a more exclusive and personalized experience getting to Kastelorizo, private boats and charters offer a luxurious option. By opting for a private boat or charter, you can enjoy the flexibility of creating your own itinerary and exploring hidden coves along the way..
Private boats and charters provide not only convenience but also privacy for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in tranquility. Whether traveling with family or friends, booking a private boat ensures an unforgettable voyage to Kastelorizo that is tailored to your preferences.
Useful Telephones
Kastelorizo Airport: +30 22460 49502
Kastelorizo Police Station: +30 22460 49333
Municipality of Kastelorizo: +30 22460 49269
Port Authority: +30 22460 49270
Kastelorizo Multipurpose Clinic: +30 22460 49267
Post Office: +30 22460 49298
Bank (ATM available): +30 22460 48901
Citizens’ Service Centre (KEP): +30 22460 70670
Puzzle Museum: +30 6980 865814
History Museum: +30 22460 49283
Petrol Station: +30 6942 650940
Taxi: +30 6938 739178
Sea Taxi: +30 69777 76927
Tourist Office: +30 22460 49356