Skiathos Castle: A Historic Byzantine and Venetian Fortress in Greece
Visitor Information
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Official Website: www.kastra.eu
Country: Greece
Civilization: Medieval European, Ottoman
Site type: Military
Remains: Castle
History
Skiathos Castle is situated in the municipality of Skiathos, Greece, and was established by the local Byzantine population in the mid-14th century. The castle arose around 1360 when residents abandoned the earlier main settlement, now modern Skiathos town, seeking protection after repeated attacks by Turkish pirates.
Initially, the castle remained under Byzantine control until the significant political upheaval marked by the Fall of Constantinople in 1453. Following this event, the Republic of Venice took possession of the fortress. Venetian rule was characterized by harsh governance, which culminated in a failed local rebellion against the Venetian governor Vicenzo Baffo in 1518. Despite the insurrection, the inhabitants could not secure protection against corsair raids from the Ottoman Empire.
In 1538, Ottoman admiral Hayreddin Barbarossa led a siege against the castle, during which the locals, hoping to avoid further slaughter, killed the Venetian governor and allowed Ottoman forces to enter. Contrary to their hopes, many inhabitants were killed or enslaved under Ottoman rule. The Ottoman authorities undertook repairs on the fortifications in 1619 to strengthen their hold on the site.
Venetian forces briefly regained control in the mid-17th century, spearheaded by commander Francesco Morosini, who recaptured the castle in 1660 after a raid in 1655. Venetian authority during this period was severe, including public executions and compelling inhabitants to serve as rowers in the Venetian navy’s galleys. The castle’s military importance persisted through these turbulent years.
During the Greek War of Independence in the early 19th century, Skiathos Castle was repeatedly targeted by Greek revolutionary forces based in Mount Olympus. On July 14, 1826, an important event unfolded when rebels led by Tsamis Karatasos successfully captured and plundered the castle. With the establishment of the independent Greek state, Skiathos joined the new nation in 1829, after which the castle was abandoned in favor of resettling the earlier town site.
Remains
The castle is perched on a rocky promontory at Skiathos island’s northernmost point. Its natural defense comes from steep cliffs on three sides, facing the sea, while man-made fortifications protect the landward southern side. Here, significant walls defend the only entrance, emphasizing the strategic focus on accessible approaches.
The main gate is narrow and was designed for defense, originally secured by a wooden drawbridge. Near this entrance, defenders employed a cauldron for boiling oil—a traditional defensive measure known as a ζεματίστρα—to repel attackers. Within the castle walls, densely packed houses accommodated a 500 to 1,500 strong population, reflecting a tightly knit community.
Religious life was prominent, with about twenty churches divided among four distinct parishes inside the enclosure. Key religious buildings included the churches of St. Nicholas and the Nativity, which functioned as the local bishop’s cathedral. These buildings remained in use after the castle’s abandonment, marking their importance across centuries.
During Ottoman control, the site was adapted to serve the occupiers’ needs; notably, a mosque and the residence of the Turkish governor were constructed. These additions were modest, intended for a small garrison rather than a large military presence.
Recent restoration efforts have focused on preserving several critical elements of the castle’s architectural heritage. The churches of St. Marina and St. Basil have been carefully restored, along with two cisterns essential for water storage. Additionally, the Ottoman-era mosque, portions of the main gate complex, and sections of the defensive walls have undergone conservation to maintain their structure and historical significance.