The Legendary Red Castle
Built at the foothills of Mount Ochi from red schist—hence its name “Kokkinokastro” (Red Castle)—Karystos Castle offers panoramic views of the town and the sea. It was constructed in the early 13th century by the Lombard Dalle Carceri family on the site of a Byzantine fortification dating back to the 11th century.
In 1276, the castle was captured for the Byzantines by Likarios, a native of Karystos with Lombard roots, born into a poor and humble family. Ambitious, capable, and clever, he had secretly married the noblewoman Feliza despite her family’s objections. Historical events from his life have blended with legends that are still told today, including the story that he seized the Red Castle to take revenge on those who had scorned him.
The Lombards recaptured it in 1295, and afterward, the castle changed hands several times before falling to the Ottomans. It became part of the Greek state in 1833, when Evia was liberated.
Climb the cobbled path and admire the well-preserved castle rising above you, with its towers, battlements, and arrow slits. It is open to the public, and inside you can explore the inner fortifications and the layout of the building, which likely served as the governor’s house. Within the Red Castle, also, lies the chapel of Prophet Elias.
Take your time to soak in the limitless views—especially at sunset, when the spectacle is truly breathtaking. If you have time, be sure to also see the medieval aqueduct, known as the Kamares, located just below Montofoli Hill.
In 1276, the castle was captured for the Byzantines by Likarios, a native of Karystos with Lombard roots, born into a poor and humble family. Ambitious, capable, and clever, he had secretly married the noblewoman Feliza despite her family’s objections. Historical events from his life have blended with legends that are still told today, including the story that he seized the Red Castle to take revenge on those who had scorned him.
The Lombards recaptured it in 1295, and afterward, the castle changed hands several times before falling to the Ottomans. It became part of the Greek state in 1833, when Evia was liberated.
Climb the cobbled path and admire the well-preserved castle rising above you, with its towers, battlements, and arrow slits. It is open to the public, and inside you can explore the inner fortifications and the layout of the building, which likely served as the governor’s house. Within the Red Castle, also, lies the chapel of Prophet Elias.
Take your time to soak in the limitless views—especially at sunset, when the spectacle is truly breathtaking. If you have time, be sure to also see the medieval aqueduct, known as the Kamares, located just below Montofoli Hill.
