The medieval castle of Skiathos, known locally as the “Kastro”, has officially reopened to the public following extensive restoration works, the Skiathos Municipality announced this week.
Located on the rugged northern tip of the island, the Kastro was inaugurated by Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni and Skiathos Mayor Thodoris Tzoumas, marking the completion of a long-anticipated heritage project.
Originally built in the 14th century, the Kastro served as the island’s capital until 1829. Overlooking a small cove, the fortified site was once home to hundreds of residents seeking protection from pirate raids. Today, it stands as a protected cultural monument, now fully accessible thanks to the restoration of key elements, including the main gate, entrance bridge, and central footpath.
The renovation was overseen by the Culture Ministry’s Directorate of Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Monuments with a total budget of 2.14 million euros.
A New Cultural Chapter for Skiathos
Skiathos Mayor Thodoris Tzoumas and Culture Minister Lina Mendoni (R) at the Kastro.
This reopening is part of a broader initiative by the Skiathos Municipality to rebrand the island as a year-round cultural destination, blending history, sports, gastronomy, and live events to attract a more diverse audience beyond its well-known summer beaches.
“The Kastro is not just a historic site. It’s a sacred symbol of the island, closely tied to the life and works of Alexandros Papadiamantis, said Mayor Tzoumas, referring to the beloved Greek author who featured the castle in many of his short stories.
Minister Mendoni also emphasized the literary importance of the site, calling it the “Castle of Alexandros Papadiamantis”, known internationally through his vivid storytelling.
“The Kastro is now accessible again; with its entrance, streets, and churches restored, for locals and visitors. Papadiamantis’ descriptions of its past now meet the living present of Skiathos,” she said. This project is, she said, a memorial service in honor of Papadiamantis.
