Kastro description and photos - Greece: Thassos (Topic)

Kastro description and photos - Greece: Thassos. Detailed information about the attraction. Description, photographs and a map showing the nearest significant objects. The name in English is Kastro.

Photo and description

Among the ravines and gorges in the central part of the island of Thassos, at an altitude of 450-500 m above sea level, there is one of its oldest settlements - Castro (translated from Greek means "fortress") ... The history of the settlement dates back to the early 15th century, when the Genoese built a powerful fortress on a small mountain plateau. This place was not chosen by chance. In the Middle Ages, in order to protect themselves from pirate attacks, the inhabitants of the islands mostly built their well-fortified settlements in hard-to-reach places away from the coast (usually high in the mountains). For a long time, the settlement flourished and perfectly defended its inhabitants.

By the end of the 19th century, Castro fell into decay and was completely deserted. Some of the residents moved to the lowlands, where the conditions and fertile soil were most suitable for farming. Many settled in the new village "Limenaria", founded by the German mining company Speidel, which began to develop deposits of natural resources in these places, and some residents left the island altogether in search of a "better life".

In the center of Castro is located the perfectly preserved church of St. Athanasius is the oldest temple and an important historical monument of the island. According to a commemorative inscription, it was erected in 1804. Almost the entire population of Castro took part in its construction, and parts of the Genoese castle destroyed by that time were used as building materials. However, the ruins of medieval fortress walls have been partially preserved to this day.

For many years the settlement was empty. Only in recent years, some of the houses have been renovated and are now used in summer and on weekends. Today Castro is a fairly well-known landmark of the island. The unique atmosphere of a medieval settlement reigns here, and magnificent panoramic views open from the top of the plateau. There is also a small cozy tavern. But in reality Castro comes to life during the celebration of St. Athanasius' Day (January 18). At this time, there are massive folk festivals with songs, dances and traditional treats for which most of the Thassos residents gather.

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Topic: Kastro description and photos - Greece: Thassos.