KASTRO

The walls of the fortress contain the remains of the old Muslim and Jewish quarters. This citadel was the center of the political and military administration of the island and covers about 400 m². Built by the Byzantines towards the end of the 10th century, it was reworked by the Genoese and the Ottomans. The Catholic bishop and the Genoese nobles lived in the kastro, before they were replaced by the Jewish and Ottoman populations. Many churches, including St. George, were transformed into mosques. Unfortunately, the palaces, churches and towers that were mentioned in the travelers' accounts no longer exist, destroyed by the devastating earthquake of 1881.

On the south side, large sections of the imposing walls remain: the most spectacular entrance to the citadel is through the Porta Maggiora (1694), behind the town hall. It gives access to the Giustiniani palace, from the Genoese period, which today houses temporary exhibitions.

Inside the kastro, you can walk as if out of time, among the houses partly destroyed by the successive earthquakes. Despite the efforts of restoration, the general state is very dilapidated but gives a particular charm to the place. On the pretty central square is a small Ottoman cemetery where many dignitaries were buried, including Pasha Kara Ali. Today, the café terraces spread out their tables in front of this small historical jewel. At the north end, don't miss the beautifully restored Ottoman baths, or hammam.