Standing proudly on the southwestern tip of the Peloponnese, the Castle of Methoni is one of the most captivating examples of a medieval fortified town in Greece. Just beyond its walls lies the small island fortress of Bourtzi, gracefully connected to the castle by a picturesque arched stone bridge.
🏰 A Glimpse into History
The Venetians began constructing the Castle of Methoni in 1209 A.D., transforming this coastal outpost into one of the most important maritime strongholds in the eastern Mediterranean. In ancient times, the area was known as Pedasus, described by Homer as the “vine-clad city,” a name that reflects its fertile land covered with vineyards. According to the Iliad, Methoni was one of the seven cities offered by Agamemnon to Achilles in an effort to appease his anger and persuade him to return to battle.
Throughout the centuries, Methoni, known as Mothoni to Pausanias and Strabo, and referenced by Thucydides for its early fortifications became a coveted prize.
Thanks to its natural harbor and strategic location along vital sea routes, it drew the ambitions of Franks, Venetians, and Ottomans, each eager to claim it for their economic and political power.
🏰 The Golden Age and Decline
The castle reached its zenith during the First Venetian Rule (13th–15th centuries), when Methoni flourished as a bustling trade hub and naval base. Its decline came centuries later, around 1828, when the local inhabitants were relocated outside the fortress walls, leaving the once-vibrant stronghold to time and the elements. Yet, even in ruins, the Castle of Methoni retains a haunting grandeur, whispering tales of battles, merchants, and conquerors to every visitor who walks its weathered paths.
🏰 Architectural Marvels and Fortified Grandeur
Built primarily by the Venetians, and later modified by Franks and Ottomans, the Methoni Castle reflects a fascinating blend of architectural influences. Covering an area of approximately 93,000 square meters, the fortress is divided into two main sections: the southern area that once housed the town and the northern part designed for defense.
A deep moat separates the castle from the mainland, and a wooden bridge leads visitors through its magnificent main gate, adorned with Corinthian-style pilasters and an elegant arch—likely a later Venetian addition from the 18th century. Over the centuries, the castle’s walls were repeatedly reconstructed to meet evolving military needs, resulting in a structure that narrates the changing tides of power in the Mediterranean.
“If you want to explore another castle in the Peloponnese, visit Acrocorinth.”
🏰 Inside the Castle Walls
Wandering through Methoni’s fortress feels like stepping back in time. Among the ruins stand the Church of the Transfiguration of the Saviour (Metamorfosi tou Sotiros) from the Second Venetian Period, a gunpowder magazine from the first Venetian era, two Ottoman baths, and remnants of the Venetian nobles’ residences.
Also within the walls lie the ruins of the Byzantine Church of Saint Sophia, the residence of Pasha Ibrahim (later occupied by General Maison during the French presence in 1828), and the striking Column of Morosini, a smooth granite pillar that likely supported a statue of Francesco Morosini or the Winged Lion of Venice—the emblem of Venetian power. Nearby, visitors can also find a cemetery for British prisoners from the Second World War, a poignant reminder of the site’s layered history.
🏰 The Enigmatic Bourtzi Fortress
To the south of the main castle lies Bourtzi, a small fortified islet built after 1500 A.D. This octagonal, two-storey tower surrounded by a low defensive wall once served many purposes—fort, prison, lighthouse, and refuge during raids. Inside, visitors can still see traces of its cistern, battlements, and the circular dome that crowns the tower. The small stone bridge connecting Bourtzi to Methoni completes the romantic image of a castle rising from the sea.
🏰 A Living Monument of Greek Heritage
Though partially in ruins, the Castle of Methoni remains one of the most impressive historical sites in Greece, captivating visitors with its commanding sea views, atmospheric ruins, and centuries-old legends. Standing alone against the sea breeze, this Venetian fortress of the Peloponnese continues to embody both the grandeur and melancholy of a bygone era.
For travelers seeking hidden gems in Greece, Methoni Castle is a destination where history, architecture, and natural beauty intertwine. A place where the stones still whisper the stories of empires that rose and fell by the sea.
🕰️ Best time to visit the Castle of Methoni, is Spring and early autumn because the weather is pleasant and the area is less crowded.
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The Greek Heaven Team