A distinctive network of communication and defense
Imposing and austere, the square stone towers of Central Evia rise in countless locations, inspiring awe. Particularly along the Kymi–Aliveri axis, there was a high concentration of towers (and castles) protecting the fertile region between the two towns.
These towers were built during the Venetian and Frankish periods at strategic passes or on elevated ground to oversee the surrounding area, often on the sites of ancient beacon towers, known as phryktoriae, (ancient towers once used to transmit messages by fire signals). Their intervisibility also allowed the creation of a remarkable network, serving both defensive purposes and the transmission of messages.
Of the dozens of towers that once existed in the area, some have completely collapsed, while others survive only in their foundations. In the village of Avlonari, you will encounter the most impressive and well-preserved tower, featuring fine battlements. During the Ottoman period, it housed a garrison; later, it accommodated Bavarian soldiers and subsequently served as the Town Hall of the Municipality of Dystia, as it is said. Restored in 1953, it stands today as one of the most beautiful sights in the region.
The Tower of Avlonari was in visual contact with the tower in the village of Trachili. Built at the highest point of the village, it remains impressive to this day and, in turn, maintains visual contact with other towers, such as the one in the village of Kadi, which is also well preserved.
The tower in Aliveri, located within the premises of the PPC power plant, has been restored. Ιt is also well worth seeking out the Koutoumoula (or Velos) Tower, considered the tallest in Evia.
These towers were built during the Venetian and Frankish periods at strategic passes or on elevated ground to oversee the surrounding area, often on the sites of ancient beacon towers, known as phryktoriae, (ancient towers once used to transmit messages by fire signals). Their intervisibility also allowed the creation of a remarkable network, serving both defensive purposes and the transmission of messages.
Of the dozens of towers that once existed in the area, some have completely collapsed, while others survive only in their foundations. In the village of Avlonari, you will encounter the most impressive and well-preserved tower, featuring fine battlements. During the Ottoman period, it housed a garrison; later, it accommodated Bavarian soldiers and subsequently served as the Town Hall of the Municipality of Dystia, as it is said. Restored in 1953, it stands today as one of the most beautiful sights in the region.
The Tower of Avlonari was in visual contact with the tower in the village of Trachili. Built at the highest point of the village, it remains impressive to this day and, in turn, maintains visual contact with other towers, such as the one in the village of Kadi, which is also well preserved.
The tower in Aliveri, located within the premises of the PPC power plant, has been restored. Ιt is also well worth seeking out the Koutoumoula (or Velos) Tower, considered the tallest in Evia.
