Description of the attraction
One of the most famous and interesting sights of the Greek island of Patmos is the picturesque hill known as "Kasteli", located in the central part of the island, north of its administrative center, Chora and just a few kilometers from the port of Skala, where the ruins of the ancient acropolis lie.
Ancient artifacts found during the archaeological excavations of Kasteli Hill (including various devices made of obsidian and silicon) testify to the existence of the first settlements here back in the Bronze Age, which, however, is not surprising, given its strategically advantageous location, which makes it possible to simultaneously control three bays - Skala, Merik and Khokhlak. Excavation results also point to continuous use of the Kasteli Hill, dating from around the 8th century BC. and up to the 4th century AD It is also known that at the end of the Classical or the beginning of the Hellenistic period, the hill was thoroughly fortified; this is confirmed by some architectural fragments of the ancient citadel that have survived to this day and dated to this very period.
Kasteli Hill is an important archaeological and historical monument, and will undoubtedly be of interest to lovers of antiquities. It is worth noting that the remains of the old fortress that have survived to this day give a very good idea of the peculiarities of the fortification architecture of the ancient era. However, it is worth climbing the hill for the sake of the stunning panoramic views from its top. The ancient artifacts found during the excavations can be seen today in the museum of the city of Chora, known as the "House of Nikolaidis".
