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Kefalos Castle: A Byzantine Fortress with Panoramic Views

Explore the historic Kefalos Castle in Kos: a medieval fortress with stunning views of the Aegean Sea and a rich, captivating history.

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Explore the ruins of Kefalos Castle, a medieval fortress built by the Knights Hospitaller on the island of Kos. Perched on a hill overlooking Kefalos Bay, the castle offers stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's rich history.

A brief summary to Castle of Kefalos

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the castle can be uneven and requires some walking.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of Kefalos Bay and the surrounding islands.
  • After visiting the castle, explore the nearby village of Kefalos for traditional Greek dining experiences.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Kefalos village, the Castle of Kefalos is approximately a 20-minute walk. Head towards the sea, and follow the signs leading to the castle, which is located on a hill overlooking the town. The walk offers scenic views of the area.

  • Public Transport

    From Kos Town, take the KTEL bus to Kefalos. The bus departs from the main bus station near the port in Kos Town and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Once in Kefalos, disembark at the last stop. From there, the Castle of Kefalos is a 10-15 minute walk. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions. A single bus ticket from Kos Town to Kefalos costs around €5-€7.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Kos Town near the port or central areas. Inform the driver that you wish to go to the Castle of Kefalos. The taxi ride takes approximately 35 minutes from Kos Town to Kefalos, depending on traffic. Confirm the fare before starting your journey, as the cost may vary. A taxi from Kos Town to Kefalos typically costs between €50-€60.

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Discover more about Castle of Kefalos

Kefalos Castle, also known as Kastelli, is a historical landmark located on the southwestern side of Kos, near the village of Kefalos. The castle's origins trace back to the Byzantine era, with significant development by the Knights Hospitaller of St. John after they conquered Kos in 1315. The Knights expanded and reinforced the existing fortifications, incorporating it into their network of island defenses. Strategically positioned on a high hill, the castle offered a commanding view of Kefalos Bay, the surrounding coastline, and nearby islands like Nisyros. This vantage point was crucial for spotting potential threats, including Ottoman forces. In 1457, the castle served as a refuge for around 12,000 residents of Kos during a Turkish invasion, successfully withstanding the attack. Despite its strategic advantages, Kefalos Castle faced challenges, including erosion and damage from the devastating earthquake of 1493. Restoration efforts were undertaken by the Knights of St. John until 1505. However, due to the threat of new Turkish invasions, the castle was deemed inadequate and ordered to be evacuated. The Ottomans conquered Kos in 1522 and used the castle as a military camp. Today, visitors can explore the weathered ruins of Kefalos Castle, including sections of the defensive walls, a polygonal fortification, and a surviving water cistern. The castle's elevated location provides breathtaking panoramic views of the bay and surrounding area, making it a worthwhile destination for history enthusiasts and sightseers alike.

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