Kritinia Castle

Kritinia Castle, known as Kastello by the locals, stands majestically along the route from Kamiros Skala to Kritinia village.

Situated on the island’s western side, approximately 50 km from Rhodes town, and just 2 km away from Kritinia village, it is regarded as one of the most remarkable and well-preserved castles on the island.

The Knights of Saint John chose this particular point because of its strategic location, allowing them to have full control of the area. Located on a 131-meter high hill, this site is an example of Byzantine and Medieval architecture. Its main goal was to protect the people living nearby from enemy raids coming from the sea.

It was designed and built in 1472 by the architect Giorgio Orsini, under the leadership of the Grand Master Giovanni Battista degli Orsini, and was fully completed after continuous rebuilding and fortifications in the 16th century. The fortification of the Castle was carried out by the greatest engineers of the time.

Although the castle has suffered much damage, especially inside, the coats of arms of the Grand Masters Giovanni Battista degli Orsini, Fabrizio del Caretto, Pierre d’Aubusson and Emery d’Amboise still survive.

Best Time to Visit

You can visit the medieval castle of Kritinia at any time of the day, with a breathtaking panoramic view of the sea and the surrounding islands. However, the best time is in the afternoon, when the sun and the sea become one, giving you the opportunity to enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets on the island.

Also, if you are on the island towards the end of June, don’t miss the Medieval Festival that takes place every year on the last weekend of June. A revival of the medieval era with music, knights, traditional food and lots of events.