 Kastelorizo chora
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Kastelorizo or Megisti is the only settlement in the island. It is built in the northeast end of the island, in the banks of a hill. The double-decked houses with multi-coloured shutters create a unique picture. Take a stroll in the streets with the neoclassic mansions and the churches with baronial cupola and let yourselves in the charm of Megisti.
In the left part of the port and on the top of the hill is built the Knights’ fortress dated from the 14th century. The hill has red rocks from which the castle was named Kastelo Roso, which means Red Castle. So, from a paraphrase of this denomination came the new name, Kastelorizo.
In an old bastion of the Castle is roofed the Archaeological Collection of Megisti, which hosts important findings of the Hellenistic period, of Roman and Byzantine times.
Under the castle and carved in the rocks was found a grave of Doric period, known as Lykios Grave, as it is similar to those found in Lykia of Minor Asia.
The most important monument in the island that every visitor should see is Paleokastro. It is the Doric Acropolis of the island. Part of its walls are saved and an ancient Tower.
Highly impressive are the Cyclops Walls, found in many parts of the island. The biggest parts of it are in Kampos, Paleokastro and mountain Mounda.
In Kastelorizo you will also see many imposing churches. Don’t miss worship the church of Saint Constantine and Helen, the metropolitan church of the island. The church has gothic elements. The roof leans upon twelve granite pillars, transferred from the temple of Apollo to Tartara of Lykia.
Other important churches are those of Saint Nikolaos, Panagia of Horafia and Saint Mercurios. It is worth visiting the monastery of Saint George built during the 17th century.
Swim in the clean beaches of the island with deep waters. You can boat in Galazia cave or Fokiali. It is one of the most beautiful marine caves in Mediterranean. Entering it can only be by boat and visitors have to bend their heads. But when they rise them they are magnetized by the spectacle. The cave’s dome is huge with gigantic stalactites that let sun rays pass them through and give them unique colours. This cave is the refuge of Mediterranean monk seal. >br>
While staying in Kastelorizo you will taste the local specialties in the island’s taverns.
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