Frankish Castle Paroikia, Paros Travel Guide

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Explore the Frankish Castle in Paroikia, a historic fortress with stunning views, built with ancient temple ruins, showcasing Paros's rich past.

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Frankish Castle Paroikia

The Frankish Castle in Paroikia, also known as Frangokastelo, is a medieval fortress constructed in the 13th century by the Venetian Sanudo family. Built upon the ancient acropolis of Paros, using remnants of ancient temples, it offers panoramic views of the town and the Aegean Sea.

A brief summary to Frankish Castle Paroikia

Paros, 844 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 Frankish Castle Paroikia.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the castle involves some walking on uneven surfaces.
Visit during the late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and a beautiful sunset view.
Combine your visit with a stroll through Parikia's old town to experience the local culture and cuisine.
Check out the nearby Church of Ekatontapiliani, one of the oldest Byzantine churches in Greece.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Archaeological Museum of Paros

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Agios Fokas

Mycenaean Acropolis (Koukounaries)

Hellenistic Sculpture Workshop

Explore Frankish Castle Paroikia on the Map

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

Getting There

Walking

From the Parikia port or the central bus station, head towards the waterfront and follow the signs leading to the Frankish Castle. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes through the charming streets of Parikia. The route involves a gradual uphill climb. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

Take a local bus from the main bus station in Parikia. Get off at the 'Parikia' bus stop, which is the central stop in town. From there, it's about a 10-minute walk to the castle. Head southeast on Ethniki Odos Parou-Antiparou, then turn left onto Agiou Nikolaou Street, and follow the signs to the castle. Bus tickets cost from €1.80.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Parikia, especially near the port. A short taxi ride from the port or the town center to the Frankish Castle will cost approximately €7-10 during the day. Ensure the driver uses the meter, or negotiate the fare beforehand.

Discover more about Frankish Castle Paroikia

Perched atop the hill of Agios Konstantinos in Paroikia, the Frankish Castle stands as a testament to Paros's layered history. Constructed in 1260 by Marco Sanudo, the Venetian Duke of Naxos, the castle incorporates marble from ancient Greek temples, blending architectural styles. Known locally as "kastro," it served as a crucial defensive structure against pirates and invaders.Visitors can explore the remnants of the castle's walls and towers, offering a glimpse into its strategic importance. The eastern and southern parts of the walls, along with a defensive tower, are still visible. Embedded within the castle's four chapels are ancient columns, showcasing the integration of ancient materials into the structure. The Church of Agios Constantinos, located within the castle, highlights the island's religious significance.While the western and northern parts of the wall are believed to have been lost to a landslide in the 18th century, the remaining structure provides stunning views of Paroikia and the Aegean Sea. The castle is conveniently located near the town center, making it easily accessible to other attractions, shops, and cafes. A visit to the Frankish Castle offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the rich heritage of Paros.