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Platamon Castle: A Crusader Fortress with Olympian Views

Explore a medieval castle with stunning Aegean views, steeped in history and legend, at the foot of Mount Olympus.

Perched strategically southeast of Mount Olympus, Platamon Castle is a medieval fortress with roots stretching back to ancient times. Built by Crusaders in the 13th century, it offers stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding Pieria region, guarding the passage between Macedonia and Thessaly.

A brief summary to Platamon Castle

  • Platamon Castle, GR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain within the castle can be uneven.
  • Check the opening hours before your visit, as they vary seasonally.
  • Bring water, especially during the summer months, as there are limited facilities inside the castle.
  • Consider attending a performance or concert during the Olympus Festival in the summer for a unique cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Platamonas, head northeast on the Epar. Od. Platamona-Penteleimona road. The walk to the castle takes approximately 20 minutes. Ensure you are wearing comfortable footwear due to potentially uneven terrain.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from the nearest bus station in Mount Olympus towards Platamonas. Upon arrival at the Platamonas bus station, the castle is approximately a 15-minute walk away. Follow the signs towards the castle along the Epar. Od. Platamona-Penteleimona road. Bus fare will typically be a few euros.

  • Taxi

    From Leptokarya, a taxi ride to Platamon Castle will take about 9 minutes and cost approximately €15-€19. Taxis are readily available in Leptokarya.

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Discover more about Platamon Castle

Platamon Castle, a formidable Crusader fortress, stands as a silent sentinel overlooking the Aegean Sea and the mythical Mount Olympus. Its history is a rich tapestry woven from ancient settlements, Byzantine nobility, and Ottoman conquests. The castle's strategic location, controlling the exit of the Tempe Valley, has made it a coveted prize throughout the centuries. Originally the site of the ancient city of Herakleion, the area has been inhabited since the Bronze Age. The castle itself dates back to the Middle Byzantine period, with its current structure largely attributed to Lombard Crusaders in the early 13th century. They built upon the remains of older constructions to create a strategic lookout point. Over the centuries, control of Platamon Castle shifted between Byzantine, Turkish, and Venetian hands, each leaving their mark on the fortress. Visitors can explore the well-preserved walls, towers, and inner yards of the castle, stepping back in time to envision the lives of those who once defended its ramparts. Architectural highlights include the imposing tower (donjon), medieval cannons, and remnants of churches, houses, and cisterns. The castle frequently hosts theatrical performances and concerts during the summer as part of the Olympus Festival. Recent maintenance and restoration efforts have enhanced the visitor experience, making Platamon Castle a must-see destination for history buffs and sightseers alike. The panoramic views from the castle are simply breathtaking, encompassing the Pieria region and the Aegean Sea.

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