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Antimachia Castle: A Knight's Fortress on Kos
Explore Antimachia Castle on Kos: a medieval fortress with stunning views, rich history, and well-preserved ruins dating back to the 14th century.
Explore the ruins of Antimachia Castle, a 14th-century fortress built by the Knights of Saint John on the island of Kos. Discover well-preserved walls, two historic churches, and panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Antimachia Castle
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Fortress of Antimachia, Unnamed Rd,, Kos, 853 02, GR
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Getting There
Driving
Antimachia Castle is easily accessible by car or motorbike from the main district road of Kos. From Kos Town, follow the main road towards Kefalos. Approximately 200 meters before reaching Antimachia village, you'll find the castle. A tarmac road leads directly to the castle, where free parking is available. Be cautious of livestock crossing the road. There are no tolls on this route.
Public Transport
To reach Antimachia Castle by public transport, take a KTEL bus from Kos Town to Kardamaina. From Kardamaina, you can take a taxi to the castle or walk. The bus from Kos to Kardamaina costs approximately €4-€6. A taxi from Kardamaina to Antimachia Castle is approximately €10-€15. Check the local bus schedule for the Antimachia route, as buses may run periodically throughout the day. The castle is about a 10-minute walk from the nearest bus stop.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Kos. A taxi from Kos Town to Antimachia Castle will cost approximately €30-€40 and take around 25 minutes. Taxis can be found at official ranks or hailed from the street. You can also book a taxi through a local provider or taxi app. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Local tips
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Visit during the late spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain within the castle.
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Bring water and sunscreen, as there is limited shade inside the castle.
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Be cautious with children, as some areas within the castle may have unsafe or missing barriers.
Discover more about Antimachia Castle
Antimachia Castle, also known as the Castle of the Knights, is a medieval fortress constructed in the 14th century by the Knights Hospitaller of St. John. Perched on a plateau southeast of Antimachia village, the castle occupies a strategic position, offering panoramic views of the southern coast of Kos, the Aegean archipelago, and the sea passage between Nisyros and Kos.The castle's history is marked by heroic battles and sieges. In 1457, it withstood a 23-day siege by an Ottoman army of 16,000 men, defended by only 15 knights and a few hundred locals. The castle served as a refuge for the local population during pirate raids and Ottoman invasions. It also functioned as a prison for knights accused of insubordination. After an earthquake in 1493, the castle was renovated and reinforced.Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved outer walls and the ruins of the old settlement. Inside the castle, you'll find two churches: the Byzantine church of Agios Nikolaos (16th century) and the chapel of Agia Paraskevi (early 18th century). Although little remains of the old settlement, the castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and the Aegean Sea. The entrance features a massive crescent-shaped bastion with the Knights' symbol engraved in marble.
A brief summary to Antimachia Castle
Use Antimachia Castle as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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More about Kos
Discover the perfect mix of history, nature, and nightlife on the Greek island of Kos. From ancient ruins to stunning beaches, Kos offers a memorable experience for every traveler.
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