Kos Castle | Kos

Kos Castle, also known as Neratzia Castle, is a medieval fortress located in the town of Kos, on the island of Kos in the Dodecanese archipelago of Greece. The castle is one of the most prominent historical landmarks on the island, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich medieval past, as well as its strategic importance throughout history.

1. Historical Background

• Kos Castle was originally built by the Knights Hospitaller, a medieval Catholic military order, in the early 15th century. The Knights of St. John, who had a strong presence in the Dodecanese islands, constructed the castle on the remains of older structures, including an earlier Byzantine fortress. The castle was intended to protect the island from pirate attacks and to serve as a defensive stronghold during the medieval period.
• The location of the castle was chosen strategically, positioned at the entrance to the harbor of Kos Town, allowing it to control access to the island. Its location was crucial for defending the town and the nearby waters, which were frequented by pirates and rival powers.
• After the Ottoman conquest of Kos in the late 15th century, the castle was used by the Ottomans for their own defense purposes. They made various alterations to the structure, adding features such as the Ottoman-style mosque and adapting the fortress to suit their needs.
• The castle remained under Ottoman control until 1912, when it became part of the Kingdom of Italy after the Italo-Turkish War. The Italians made additional modifications, particularly during the 1930s, when they rebuilt parts of the castle and the surrounding town as part of their expansionist efforts in the region. The castle continued to be used by the Italians during their occupation of the Dodecanese until the end of World War II.
• Today, Kos Castle is a popular tourist attraction and an important symbol of the island's varied history, showcasing its Byzantine, medieval, Ottoman, and Italian influences.

2. Architecture and Structure

• The Kos Castle is built in a rectangular shape with three main entrances, designed to provide access to the interior while maintaining strong defensive capabilities. The walls are made of limestone, with parts of the original structure still visible, and the fortifications are characterized by thick, high walls, towers, and a moat.
• The main entrance, which faces the harbor, is protected by a drawbridge. Inside the castle, visitors can explore several rooms, including large courtyards, storage areas, and defensive positions. The walls were reinforced over the centuries, with additional layers of protection added by successive rulers.
• The Ottoman additions include a mosque, which is located within the castle complex. The mosque was built after the Ottoman Empire took control of the island and reflects the architectural style of that period, with a characteristic dome and minaret.
• The castle’s towers were strategically placed to allow guards to have an unobstructed view of the surrounding area, enabling them to spot approaching enemies or ships. The tallest of the towers, located at the southwestern corner, is one of the best-preserved features of the castle.
• Over the centuries, the castle underwent various reconstructions and modifications. The most significant changes occurred during the Italian occupation in the early 20th century, when the Italians refurbished and rebuilt many sections of the fortress.

3. Key Features and Highlights

• The Entrance and Drawbridge: The main entrance to the castle is accessed through a drawbridge and a moat, providing an authentic medieval experience. The drawbridge and the surrounding walls offer a glimpse into the strategic importance of the castle as a fortified structure.
• The Ottoman Mosque: Located within the castle, the mosque is one of the most notable Ottoman features. It stands out with its dome and minaret, contrasting with the otherwise medieval architecture of the fortress. It serves as a reminder of the castle's long Ottoman history.
• The Towers: The castle contains several towers, the most impressive of which is the northwestern tower. The towers were essential for defense and provide stunning views of the island, the town of Kos, and the surrounding harbor.
• The Courtyards: Inside the castle are several courtyards, which served as open spaces for soldiers to gather, store supplies, and move between different parts of the fortress. Some courtyards also contained water tanks for the castle's water supply.
• The Interior Rooms: The interior rooms of the castle are generally simple, with some areas having been preserved as museum spaces, showcasing artifacts from the medieval and Ottoman periods. The rooms include areas used for storage, living quarters, and even small chapels used for religious ceremonies.
• The Walls and Moat: The thick stone walls are one of the castle’s most striking features, demonstrating its defensive capabilities. The castle’s moat surrounds the fortress and was originally filled with water to deter attackers.
• Italian Refurbishments: During the Italian occupation, several parts of the castle were renovated, and a number of modern features, such as a statue of the Italian king, were added to commemorate their control over the Dodecanese.

4. Archaeological and Historical Significance

• Kos Castle is a living testament to the island's rich and varied history. It highlights the Byzantine, medieval, Ottoman, and Italian periods, providing a comprehensive view of the island's strategic importance in the Eastern Mediterranean.
• The castle’s unique blend of cultures and architectural styles makes it an invaluable historical and archaeological site. The ruins inside the castle provide evidence of the different phases of construction and the many uses the castle has undergone over the centuries.
• In addition to its military significance, the castle also played a key role in the religious life of the island, especially during the Ottoman period when the mosque was added.
• The museum inside the castle displays various artifacts that were uncovered during excavations, including ancient sculptures, inscriptions, and everyday objects that provide insight into life in Kos during different historical periods.

5. Visiting Kos Castle

• Kos Castle is open to the public year-round and is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island. Visitors can explore the castle’s interior and take in the panoramic views of Kos Town, the harbor, and the surrounding coastline.
• The entrance fee is relatively affordable, and the castle is easily accessible from the center of Kos Town, either by foot or by a short drive. A visit to the castle is often combined with other nearby historical sites, such as the Roman Odeon and the Ancient Agora.
• The best time to visit the castle is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the weather is cooler and the light is ideal for photography. Visitors can enjoy exploring the ramparts, towers, and the mosque, and they can also enjoy the beautiful views over the island and sea.

6. Conclusion

Kos Castle is a fascinating historical monument that encapsulates the island's rich and diverse past. Its strategic location, combined with its architectural significance, makes it an essential site for anyone interested in medieval history, the Ottoman Empire, and the architectural heritage of the Greek islands. The castle offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore a piece of history while enjoying stunning views of Kos and the Aegean Sea.