Overview:

Castle of Chalandritsa, also known as Paleochori Tower, is a Frankish period tower situated in the village of Chalandritsa in Achaia, Greece. Built in the 13th century, this tower served as a defensive point for the nearby settlement. From its positioning on a commanding high elevation, it provided an optimal view of the surrounding land and had strategic use for the Franks during clashes with the nearby Ottomans. Hidden away in the thick olive groves of the valley, this ancient castle still stands today as a testament to its grand past. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Greece
Prominent Features:

there are many castles, all of them romantic reminders of past wars and rich stories to accompany their construction. The Castle of Chalandritsa in Greece is one of these and it has many features very characteristic of the Frankish period when it was built. The structure of the castle is a prominent part of its charm, with a square tower, court yard, gates, curved walls, and ramparts. The high walls are a testament to its defensive history and ensured security in its heyday. Also the unique terracotta roof tiles on the castle towers and walls add further beauty and splendour to the structure. Not only is the exterior of the castle a sight to behold, but the inside is equally impressive. Inside there are two stone churches as well as spacious courtyards that are perfect for exploring. The castle has also been used in films and television series at times, adding to its popularity and its impressive standing as one of the most romantic castles in all of Greece. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Greece.

History:

The Castle of Chalandritsa is a medieval fortified tower located in the Greek town of Aroania, in theArcadia region of the Peloponnese. It was built in the late 13th century by the Frankish rulers of the area, and has been variously used as a prison, fortification, and a monastery. The castle was originally constructed as part of a larger defensive system of castles and forts to protect the area from Ottoman attack. It is thought to have been constructed in the late 13th century by the rulers of the Principality of Achaea, Guy II de la Roche and William II Villehardouin. It is uncertain when the castle was abandoned, though some sources date it to 1417, when the last Frankish siege of Athens failed. The castle underwent extensive restoration by the Greek government in the 1990s, allowing visitors to once again explore its imposing walls and towers. It has also become a popular destination for artists and photographers looking to capture the castle’s unique atmosphere. The castle’s grounds are home to a small chapel dedicated to St. Fanourios, a Byzantine-era saint, and a memorial to the area's fallen soldiers from the Greco-Turkish war of 1919-1922. Today the castle serves as a reminder of the turbulent history of the region and a testament to the elaborate defense system set up by the Frankish rulers of the time. It is also a popular tourist site in the region, offering a unique glimpse into a long-lost era of European history. Visit one of the famous monuments of Greece with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Castle of Chalandritsa was built in the 13th century by the Franks, a western European people who lived during the Middle Ages. 2. The castle is located on a hilltop in the village of Chalandritsa in Central Greece, and is surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. 3. The structure is composed of two concentric towers, the Inner Tower and the Outer Tower, which are connected by a wall. 4. The castle was used as a defensive stronghold during the Frankish rule of the area, as it provided a view of the surrounding countryside and could be easily defended. 5. The castle was also used as a beacon for ships travelling in the nearby Ionian Sea. 6. In 1802, the castle was damaged by an earthquake, damaging its walls and crumbling its towers. 7. Today, the castle has been restored and is open to visitors who can explore it and enjoy its breathtaking views. 8. In May 2000, the castle was added to the list of monuments protected by Greece's Ministry of Culture. One of the historical monuments of Greece, it tells the story of a bygone era