Gyzi Castle, Mykonos Travel Guide

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Discover the ruins of Gyzi Castle in Mykonos: a Venetian fortress with panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's medieval history.

Explore the ruins of Gyzi Castle in Ano Mera, Mykonos, a 13th-century Venetian fortress built by the Gyzi family to protect the island from pirates and invaders. Perched on a hill, it offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Mykonos's medieval past.

A brief summary to Gyzi Castle

Greece, Άνω Μέρα, 846 00, GR

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Combine your visit to Gyzi Castle with a stop at the nearby Panagia Tourliani Monastery in Ano Mera.
Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain around the castle can be uneven and steep.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities at the castle site.

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Explore Gyzi Castle on the Map

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

Getting There

Public Transport

From Mykonos Town, take the bus to Ano Mera. Buses depart from the Old Port bus station. The bus ride takes approximately 15-25 minutes. From Ano Mera village, Gyzi Castle is a 15-minute walk. Bus fare: Approximately €2.
Taxi

From Mykonos Town, a taxi to Ano Mera takes about 8 minutes. From Ano Mera village center, it is a short walk or taxi ride to the castle ruins. Taxi fare from Mykonos Town to Ano Mera: Approximately €35-€45.
Walking

From Ano Mera village center, follow the signs to Gyzi Castle. The walk is approximately 15 minutes uphill. Be prepared for uneven terrain.

Discover more about Gyzi Castle

Gyzi Castle, situated on a hill overlooking Ano Mera village in Mykonos, offers a journey back to the island's medieval past. Built in the 13th century by the Gyzi family, a Venetian noble family who ruled the Cyclades, the castle served as a crucial defense against pirates and enemy attacks. Today, only ruins remain of this once-imposing fortress, but they whisper tales of a storied past.As you wander through the area, you'll encounter remnants of the ancient city of Mykonos, including a prehistoric marketplace, an ancient cemetery, and fragments of an older wall fortification. Nearby stands the 18th-century Church of the Holy Saviour, offering a peaceful respite and a glimpse into the island's spiritual heritage. The hill on which Gyzi Castle rests provides spectacular views of the island's northern side, with the azure Aegean Sea stretching to the horizon.Visitors can explore the castle grounds free of charge. The fortification, spanning 2,840 square meters, features walls built in distinct phases, reflecting Hellenistic, Byzantine, and Venetian craftsmanship. While little remains within the walls except the Church of the Holy Trinity, the site provides breathtaking views of Mykonos and its northern coastline.