Palaio Pyli Castle, Kos Travel Guide

4.7 (2041)

Discover the medieval history and breathtaking views at Palaio Pyli Castle, a Byzantine fortress on the island of Kos.

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Palaio Pyli Castle

Explore the ruins of Palaio Pyli Castle, a Byzantine-era fortress perched atop a hill on the island of Kos. This abandoned settlement offers a glimpse into the island's medieval past and provides stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and surrounding islands.

A brief summary to Palaio Pyli Castle

Dikeo, 853 00, GR
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Palaio Pyli Castle.

Wear sturdy shoes as the paths to the castle are uneven and rocky.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
Bring water, especially during the summer months, as there are limited facilities on site.
Take the left path for an easier climb to the top.

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Explore Palaio Pyli Castle on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Palaio Pyli Castle, mapped for you.

Getting There

Bus

From Kos Town, take the local bus (KTEL) towards Zia or Pyli. Buses to Zia depart twice daily. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes to Zia. From the bus stop in either Pyli or Zia, follow the signs to Palaio Pyli Castle. The remaining distance is approximately 3 kilometers and requires a walk along a marked path. Bus tickets from Kos Town to Zia or Pyli range from €2.30 to €3.80. It is advisable to check the bus schedule in advance at the Kos Town bus station or online.
Taxi

Taxis are available from Kos Town to Palaio Pyli Castle. The journey takes approximately 26 minutes. Taxi fares from Kos Town to Palaio Pyli Castle range from €25 to €35. Note that taxis in Kos may not always use meters, so it's essential to agree on a price with the driver before starting your journey.
Car

From Kos Town, drive southeast towards Pyli. Follow the main road and then follow the signs to Palaio Pyli Castle. The drive is approximately 15 kilometers and takes about 20-30 minutes. Parking is available near the base of the hill leading up to the castle. From the parking area, it's a 15-20 minute walk uphill to the castle ruins. Parking is free. There are no toll roads on the way to the castle.

Discover more about Palaio Pyli Castle

Palaio Pyli Castle, also known as the Castle of Old Pyli, is a historic site located near the modern village of Pyli, approximately 15 kilometers from Kos Town. The castle sits atop a naturally fortified hill, roughly 300 meters above sea level, offering commanding views of the surrounding area, including the islands of Kalymnos, Pserimos, and the Turkish coast.The castle's origins date back to the 11th century when the monk Christodoulos of Patmos established a settlement and monastery in the area. Over time, the settlement grew into a fortified town, playing a significant role in the island's defense against pirate raids and Ottoman invasions. The castle was eventually abandoned in the early 19th century, likely due to a devastating epidemic.Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the castle and the abandoned settlement, including remnants of houses, cobbled streets, and churches. The castle features multiple enclosures, with the acropolis situated at the highest point. Notable architectural features include the central gate, dating back to the 11th or 12th century, with its rectangular design and four semicircular arches. The fortifications are surrounded by three partially preserved enceintes, with seven surviving towers constructed at different times.While exploring the castle, be sure to wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be uneven. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.