The Castles of Kefalonia island

  Kefalonia, the largest island of the Ionian Sea, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece. The island is characterized by picturesque villages, unique landscapes, breathtaking beaches and rich cultural heritage.

  During its long history, Kefalonia was marked by the Venetian Rule from the 13th to the late 18th century. The two largest monuments of this period that have survived until today is the castle of Asos and the castle of Agios Georgios. The castle of Asos dominates the homonym peninsula in the northern part of Kefalonia. The protection offered by the steep cliffs of the peninsula led the Venetians to build an imposing fortress. The castle was built in the 16th century and was the seat of the Venetian nobleman. Main object of the castle was the influx of population to Asos and the creation of a new civic center. The plan was never materialized because of the long distance of the castle from the settlements of the period.

  At the same time, the castle lost its great geostrategic position when Lefkada was occupied by the Venetians so gradually it was decayed and abandoned. Although the signs of aging are prominent, today are rescued the imposing fortification of over 2 kilometers in length, the residence of the Venetian ruler, the arched gateway and the church of Agios Markos. The stunning view to the eastern coast of Kefalonia, Ionian Sea and the picturesque fishing village of Asos located at the neck of the peninsula is breathtaking.
 
  The Castle of Agios Georgios stands in a hilly rise of 300 meters at the southeastern part of the island. The castle is located 7 km southwest of Argostoli, over the village Peratata. The construction of the castle was started by the Byzantines in the 12th century. The current appearance of the castle with its elaborate fortifications is due to additional works of the Venetians that occurred at the early of the 16th century. Upon completion of work, the castle was turned into economic, cultural and administrative center of the region until the late 18th century when the capital was transferred to Argostoli. The two devastating earthquakes of the 17th century and the earthquake of 1953 caused extensive damage to the surrounding wall of the castle. The castle occupies an area of ??over 18,000 m2 and it is consisted of the fortifications, the inner enclosure and the top where stand still the ruins of the old guard. In the suburb area of ??the castle are located the Holy Annunciation Church and the Monastery St. Andrew Milapidia. The panoramic view of the bay of Argostoli and the east coast is breathtaking.


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