Kritinia Castle

If you want to find the place where fascinating history meets breathtaking beauty and dive into charm of the Greek village, this place is for you

If you want to find the place where fascinating history meets breathtaking beauty and dive into the charm of the Greek village, this place is for you. The castle of Kritinia is built on 131 m hill above the village. The original settlement with the name Kritinia was founded by the few families who escaped from Crete when it was taken by the Turks. Hence, the name of the place – Kritinia means New Crete. Initially the village was on the coast but had to be moved to the hill because of the constant threat from the pirates.

The highlight of the area undoubtedly is the Kritinia Castle. Nowadays to get there from the Rhodes Town you need approximately an hour drive but in the past the place was almost inaccessible for the enemies.

The place for the castle was chosen because of the ideal strategic position – perfect view of the Aegean Sea. The construction under the supervision of the Knights of the Order of St. John started in the 15th century, and it took around 100 years to complete. Above the entrance to the Castle the coats of arms of the Grand Masters of the Order are still visible. The towels were used to send and receive signals from the nearby islands. Also, they appeared to be priceless to control nearby roads.

Nevertheless, the time was merciless to the Castle of almighty Knights. Nowadays, there are only impressive walls, remains of the chapel and towels. One thing was preserved absolutely unchanged – the view.

Probably the place is ideal for the one who wants to see, feel and perceive how temporary is everything created by the people. Even if once it looked absolutely magnificent and unapproachable. To think about the significance of life surrounded by the gorgeous landscapes and joy of the Greek village, what can be better?