Standing on top of Agios Stefanos hill and overlooking the capital village of Megalo Chorio, the marvelous bay of Agios Antonios and the rest of the mesmerizing island, the Medieval Castle of Tilos will astound you. It is the historic attraction that you see, as soon as you start gazing at the island from afar. And it is what draws you to explore the intriguing past of Tilos, discovering the influences of Medieval times, as well as traces of antiquity. A unique experience, as you are climbing up the castle and looking down to that endless beauty all around. It literally takes your breath away…
The Medieval Castle of Tilos is else known as the Castle of the Knights and it was built by the Knights of Saint John from Rhodes. The main fortress was enormous, indeed. The outer walls covered the entire village of Megalo Chorio, protecting the locals from hostile intrusions and other dangers coming from the sea. Within short distance from the castle, there is the Cave of Charkadio. This is where archaeologists recently came across invaluable fossils from the Paleolithic times. More specifically, a pygmy elephant was found on site and this alone is an impressive notion! And equally amazing in beauty and historic value, Micro Chorio or the smaller village right next to Megalo Chorio will fascinate you.
In antiquity, the same place was used to build a temple dedicated to the Olympian Gods Athena and Apollo. Ruins of the Messaria fortress are located to the east of the castle and the fortress has been there since 1366. Within the castle, there is also the church of Archangel Michael or, to be fair, what is left of it. Even now, the devout nature of such sacred grounds goes without even saying.
You are most welcome to visit the Medieval Castle of Tilos throughout the day and especially at sunset. This is when an entirely different spectacle unfolds, meant to allure you with its unpretentious beauty and jaw-dropping wonderment. Enjoy!