In Kastellorizo, perhaps more than anywhere else, the sea has the first say. The residents know and accept it.
They are used to the isolation of winter, when the ship cannot dock; the delayed supplies from Rhodes; their rich in what the sea has to offer diet and the boats, the main means of transport on the island.
Almost all activities take place on the waterfront, in the bay where the harbour is located and from where one can see Turkey across the sea. The bay is skirted by a few rows of mansions, shops, cafes, taverns as well as many trawlers and other vessels. Here you will also find the medical centre, the town hall and most of the hotels and restaurants of the island. The rest of the island is ideal for walks and excursions.
The “pin” of the map
Kastellorizo has a distinctively unique atmosphere; it is not something specific that causes it, but the common knowledge of the long distance that separates the island from the rest of Greece. Peace and tranquility take on a new meaning on this small island at the edge of the country, far away from everyone and everything. It is exactly this knowledge that grants you a feeling of liberation.
The mansions
The colourful mansions are the dominant feature of Kordoni -as the locals call the coast in front of the harbour. The settlement is protected by a conservation order and strict rules apply to any new construction or restoration of a house. Many of the neoclassical mansions are examples from the island’s heyday in the early 20th century, such as the Santrapeia Urban School, whose architecture was inspired by the building of the University of Athens. It was built in 1903 and today it houses the school of the island. Other buildings, such as Nea Agora and the Town Hall were built during the Italian occupation and have a slightly different yet impressive architecture.
A view from above
Do not miss the chance to visit the fortified monastery Agios Georgios tou Vounou located up high in the hills of Kastellorizo. You will need to climb about 400 stairs, but the view will make it up to you. From here you will marvel the settlement from above and the neighbouring coast of Turkey. Inside the monastery there is a small catacomb, the chapel of Agios Charalambos. Before you set off, ask the locals for the keys, as the chapel is usually locked.
Galazio Spilaio (Blue Cave)
The Blue Cave –also known among natives as Cave of Parasta or Fokiali- is a unique monument of nature. It is 75 meters long, 40 meters wide and 35 meters high. The cave is famous for its beautiful stalactite formations and cold waters. Weather permitting- the Blue Cave is only accessible by boat, which can only barely fit through the entrance of the cave. You might even have to duck a little. Boats to the cave leave from the harbour and the trip lasts about an hour.
Seafood delicacies
Fish abound in the island’s waters and are always fresh and locally caught. It is easier and much more profitable for restaurants to serve fish and seafood caught on the island than to import it from elsewhere. No matter where you choose to eat, you will enjoy the freshest fish and seafood possible. In Paragadi, on the harbour, try fresh sea bream and red mullets. Go to Alexandra for the delectable octopus balls (the Greek version of Japanese takoyaki) and the scrumptious stuffed calamari and to Aiolis for the fish of the day and the famous tiny shrimps.
Info: Paragadi, Port of Kastellorizo, +30 22460 49396 / Alexandra, Port of Kastellorizo, +30 22460 49019 / Aiolis, Port of Kastellorizo, +30 22460 49335
