Koskina Castle

View to the hill, the church and the castle from the road

Koskina Castle (also known as Castle of Nicaria and Mesaria Castle) is an old fortress built on the tall conical hill of Kefala, in the middle of Ikaria island. It is located near the village of Kosikia, in Koskinas mountain, a few kilometers from Evdilos. The castle was built by Byzantines in 10th century, to protect the city of Dolichi.
The castle, although small, was the strongest of all island fortifications and the most important one. It oversees the entire area up to the shore and the sea routes around it. The stories tell that in 14th century the castle was captured after siege by Genoese pirates. Both man and women fought fiercely but were betrayed and the fortifications were taken. This event still lives in the local folklore songs and stories (like the The Rime of Infection poetry).

Parts of the outer wall still stand and are in a good state, along with one gate and the steep stairs leading to it. Inside, is the small basilica of Saint George of Dorgana which was partially built with columns and stones of ancient buildings.

Koskina Castle is open for visitors and there is no fee. People should take the route to the village of Kosikia and look for road signs when near it. There is a dirt route that ends at the base the hill of Kefala, fom there, visitors should walk on foot. The walk is short and from the fortress there are splendid views to the island and the sea.

Photos

View to the hill, the church and the castle from the roadThe sign for the castle on the main road

Address and contacts

Address: Ikaria, North Aegean Islands, Greece
Location: view on map

highlights: ruins of a small castle with chapel in it, historic sight in Ikaria, North Aegean Islands, Greece

Koskina Castle photo galleryx