Angelokastro, Byzantine castle in Paleokastritsa, Greece
Angelokastro is a castle sitting on a steep rock outcrop that rises 305 meters (1,000 feet) above sea level with natural cliffs and stone walls providing protection on three sides. The fortress is reached by climbing a long staircase from the base, and its position makes it visible from great distances across the island.
Written records first mention the castle in 1272 when Charles I of Anjou took control through his representative. Over the following centuries, it served as a critical defense point against repeated threats to the island.
The chapel of Archangel Michael sits inside a natural cave, showing how residents connected sacred spaces to the landscape itself. Over centuries, people visited to pray and buried their dead in stone graves that still remain visible today.
The climb demands good footing because the paths are steep and can become slippery in wet weather. Bring plenty of water and wear shoes with good grip, especially on warmer days when the sun is intense.
The castle was part of a three-fortress defense system with Gardiki and Kassiopi that worked together to protect the island against invaders. This arrangement allowed residents to send signals across vast distances and respond quickly to approaching threats.
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