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Nerantzia Castle: A Knight's Stronghold in Kos Harbor

Explore Kos's medieval Nerantzia Castle: a historic fortress with stunning harbor views, built by the Knights of St. John.

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Nerantzia Castle, also known as the Castle of the Knights, is a formidable medieval fortress dominating Kos Town's harbor. Built by the Knights of St. John in the 14th and 15th centuries, it stands as a symbol of the island's rich history and offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

A brief summary to Nerantzia Castle

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle's uneven terrain and climbing stairs.
  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of Kos Town and the Aegean Sea from the castle's towers.
  • Check for temporary art exhibitions or museum events that may be held on the castle grounds.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Plateia Eleftherias (main square) in Kos Town, walk southwest on Vas. Georgiou Street towards the waterfront. Turn right onto the promenade and walk along the coast, passing cafes and shops. Continue for 10-15 minutes until you see Nerantzia Castle on your left. The bridge to the castle entrance is just before the castle grounds.

  • Public Transport

    From the main bus station in Kos Town (Kleopatras Street), take a local bus heading towards Agios Fokas. Ask the driver to drop you off near the waterfront. From there, walk towards the coast and turn left onto the promenade. Walk for about 5 minutes until you reach Nerantzia Castle and the bridge. Bus tickets cost approximately €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Kos Town. A short taxi ride from the town center to Nerantzia Castle will cost approximately €5-€7. Taxi ranks are located at the harbor and near the castle. Ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand.

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Discover more about Nerantzia Castle

Nerantzia Castle, or the Castle of the Knights, is an iconic coastal fortress located at the entrance of Kos harbor. Constructed by the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem (also known as the Knights Hospitaller or Knights of Rhodes) between 1436 and 1514, the castle served as a crucial defensive structure against the Ottoman Empire. The name 'Nerantzia' comes from the bitter orange trees that once densely populated Kos. The castle's architecture showcases a blend of Byzantine, Venetian, and Gothic influences, reflecting the diverse cultures that have shaped the island's history. Built with stones from ancient ruins, including the Asklepieion, the castle exemplifies medieval resourcefulness. Its double-layered fortification system, thick walls, towers, and bastions highlight its military purpose. Visitors can still see the emblems of the Knights of St. John etched into the stone walls. Over the centuries, Nerantzia Castle has withstood numerous sieges and natural disasters, including a major earthquake in 1933. Today, after undergoing restoration, the castle is open to the public, offering a glimpse into its medieval past. Visitors can explore its stone archways, climb to the higher points for panoramic views, and wander through the museum exhibiting architectural remnants. The castle is connected to the mainland by a bridge that crosses Phoenikon Street, marking the location of a former moat.

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