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Kefalos Castle: A Window to Kos's Medieval Past

Explore the historic Kefalos Castle in Kos: Byzantine ruins, panoramic Aegean views, and a journey through medieval history.

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Perched atop a hill near Kefalos village, the ruins of Kefalos Castle offer panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's Byzantine and Knights Hospitaller history. Explore the remains of this once-strategic fortress and soak in the stunning vistas of Kefalos Bay and the surrounding Aegean Sea.

A brief summary to Castle of Kefalos

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain is uneven and requires some walking.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Aegean Sea and surrounding landscape.
  • Check for local guided tours to enhance your understanding of the castle's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Kefalos village, the castle is a roughly 20-minute walk. Head towards the sea, then follow signs for the castle. The route offers scenic views.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus from Kos Town or the airport, disembark at the Kefalos bus stop. From there, the castle is approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions. Bus fare from Kos Town to Kefalos is approximately €5.20. From the airport to Kefalos, the bus fare is about €2.90.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Kos and Kefalos. A taxi from Kos Airport to Kefalos costs approximately €27-€33 and takes about 20 minutes. From Kos town, a taxi to Kefalos will cost approximately €50-€65 and take around 43 minutes. From the taxi drop-off point in Kefalos, follow the signs to walk up to the castle.

  • Driving

    If driving, follow the main road to Kefalos. Parking is available in Kefalos village, with some spots closer to the castle. Parking next to Maistrali Restaurant is allowed for customers, and there are two other public parking areas close to the restaurant. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak season.

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Discover more about Castle of Kefalos

Kefalos Castle, located on a hill overlooking Kefalos Bay on the island of Kos, is a historical site with roots stretching back to the Byzantine era. The castle's strategic position, rather than the strength of its construction, made it a valuable stronghold. Originally built in the Byzantine period, the castle was later developed by the Knights Hospitaller of St. John after they conquered Kos in 1315. They reinforced the fortifications, integrating it into their network of island defenses. The castle served as a refuge for the local population during the Turkish invasions, most notably in 1457 when it sheltered 12,000 people. Despite sustaining damage from an earthquake in 1493, repairs were undertaken, but by 1505, it was deemed inadequate for defense and ordered to be evacuated. The Ottomans captured Kos in 1522 and used the castle as a military camp. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of the castle, including sections of the defensive enclosure, a smaller polygonal fortification, and a surviving water cistern. The ruins provide panoramic views of Kefalos Bay, the nearby village of Agios Stefanos, and the islet of Kastri.

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