Discover the unique landmarks of Karystos

From Antiquity to Byzantium and the Middle Ages, to Ottoman Rule - The History and Significant Role of Karystos

From Ancient Times to the Roman Empire

The earliest signs of human presence in the region of Karystos in southern Evia date back to the Neolithic period, between 4000 and 2000 BCE. During antiquity, the city was known by three names: "Karystos," "Cheironia," and "Aegaea."

The most common name, "Karystos," is said to derive from Karystos, the son of the Centaur Cheiron and the Naiad Chariclo. Another etymological explanation comes from the verb "karysso," meaning "to proclaim," a interpretation linked to the depiction of a rooster on the ancient coins of the city.

Karystos is mentioned in Homeric epics as one of the cities that participated with its ships in the Trojan War. At the end of the 9th century BCE, Dorians from the Spercheios valley and Oeta migrated and settled in the area. An important historical event is the resistance of Karystos against the Persian forces of Datis and Artaphernes in 490 BCE.

However, the city suffered significant destruction, with the capture of its inhabitants and the plundering of its countryside, leading to a decline in morale among the residents. This resulted in Xerxes occupying the area without resistance in 480 BCE. After Xerxes' defeat and retreat from Greece, Karystos was destroyed by the Athenian fleet of Themistocles, as punishment for its collaboration with the Persians (a phenomenon known as "Medism").

Archaeological findings indicate that in the area there were farms from the 5th century BCE, which seem to have belonged to Athenian landowners. From the late 5th century until the 4th century BCE, fortifications, farms, and workshops in the eastern region are associated with the presence of Spartans.

In the late 4th century BCE, Karystos region accepted Macedonian rule. The period from 200 to 198 BCE was marked by maritime raids and looting by the Romans, with Karystos forced to surrender after the fall of Eretria.

The establishment of the Evian Alliance in 194 BCE, in which Karystos participated, led to the withdrawal of Roman troops from the island, although the area remained under Roman influence. Eventually, in 146 BCE, Karystos was subjected to the Romans, and from 27 BCE, it was part of the Roman province of Achaea. The city experienced particular prosperity during the Late Classic period (400-323 BCE) and the Hellenistic period (323-31 BCE).

During this time, Karystos extensively exploited its quarries, which were now under imperial supervision. Karystian marble, also known as "Karystian stone" or "Cipollino," became one of the most sought-after building materials in the entire Mediterranean. It was used in many secular and religious buildings, enhancing the reputation and economic power of the region.

Byzantine Empire – Middle Ages

Karystos, like the rest of the Roman Empire, became part of the empire of Constantine the Great in 325 AD. The fact that it continued to function as the seat of a bishopric, initially under the auspices of the Metropolis of Corinth and from 733 AD of Athens, indicates its significance as a central urban center in Evia.

The use of Karystian marble in important churches in Constantinople, such as Hagia Sophia and the Church of the Holy Apostles, as well as in Thessaloniki (Church of Saint Demetrius) and Ravenna (Church of Saint Apollinaris), attests to its commercial and economic dynamism.

Archaeological research has confirmed intense urban activity during the early Byzantine period, while the historical decline of the region accelerated with the appearance of the Arabs in the Aegean and the invasion of the Avar-Slavs. Despite the difficulties, Karystos maintained its human presence, as evidenced by its mention in the ecclesiastical catalog "Notitia" of the 9th century and archaeological finds in Paleochora during the Middle Byzantine period.

The economy of Karystia revived in the 11th and 12th centuries, with Edrisi, the Turkish geographer of the 12th century, including it among the wealthy and beautiful cities of the empire. Major profitable activities included purple dye fishing, silk and candle production. The port of Karystos was an important commercial and diplomatic hub.

After the capture of 1204, the Latin Crusaders, after destroying the city at the foot of Monte Folli, built the Castello Rosso castle on the mountain's summit. According to local tradition, the ancient acropolis of Karystia was located on this hill, later becoming a medieval fortress, but none of the visible structures predate the late Byzantine period.

The history of Karystos from the 13th to the 19th century has been closely linked to the life and activities around Castello Rosso, which served as the central residential and administrative center of the region. In 1296, the castle passed into the hands of the Lombards, in 1317 to the Catalans, in 1365 to the Venetians, and in 1470 it was seized by the Turks. Over the following centuries, the area around Monte Folli supported sparse settlement, which formed the basis for the modern villages of the region.

Among the late Byzantine monuments, the church of the Monastery of Agios Georgios o Mavros (Saint George the Black) in the north of Metochi village, with an inscribed inscription dating back to 1260, is preserved. Also, in Paleochora, the northern wall of a church dedicated to Saint Mark is preserved. To the north of the plain, at the site "Charzani," a section of a Lombard tower is preserved. To the east of the region, there is a double-aisled church dedicated to Evangelist Luke and the Ascension of Christ, which has undergone multiple repairs.

The tower at the eastern end of the beach of Karystos, known as "Mpourtzi," was built in the late 14th century by the Venetians and possibly formed part of a coastal fortification. The late Byzantine years bear the signature of the kalderimia and the ruined buildings throughout the area of Monte Folli, as well as the "Spring of Virtue" of Mekounida and the complex of the "Five Fountains of the Euzones" of Grambia.

The Exciting story of the Knight Licario who Conquered Evia

The knight Licario is one of the most emblematic figures that marked the history of Evia during the Venetian rule, a period with limited historical information. Licario, also known as Ikarios, distinguished himself not only as a real historical figure but also as a central figure who significantly contributed to the effort to liberate and reintegrate Evia into the Byzantine state from the Venetians.

Born in the early 13th century in Karystos, Licario had Italian roots from the city of Vicenza or Genoa, and was connected to the powerful Genoese family Zaccaria. Serving as a knight at the court of Guiberto Dalle Carceri, he fell in love with the widow Feliza, which caused significant reactions and hostility from the Dalle Carceri family.

Licario, determined and rebellious, organized pirate and bandit groups and became an ally of Michael Palaiologos, who entrusted him with the Byzantine fleet to seize Evia. Quickly, Licario took over the capture of important castles in Evia, with Skyros revolting under his instigation.

Facing strong reactions from the Franks, he achieved significant victories in attacks and naval battles. After another naval battle and the final reconquest of the castles, Licario fortified himself in the castle of Fylla and surrendered the captives to the Byzantine emperor, while the emperor recognized his strategic skills by granting him high titles.

Although Licario seized significant footholds and occupied most Venetian positions in Evia, his historical course had a tragic end. Although he managed to impose his authority in a significant part of the island, the final conquest of Chalkida was not realized, so Licario was forced to withdraw and fortify himself in the castle of Fylla, where he lived his last years with his beloved Feliza.

The story of Licario, although associated with bravery and heroic resistance, ends with a sense of melancholy and unfulfilled expectations. His memory lives on in local tradition and myths that recount his adventures and ideals, making him one of the most significant historical characters of Evia.

Ottoman Rule - The Greek War of Independence

During the period of Ottoman rule, Karystos was a strategic control point of the Aegean for the Ottomans, playing a central role in the supply chain of the fleet between important geographical points such as Constantinople, Crete, the Peloponnese, and Smyrna.

At the same time, during the first year of the Greek Revolution in 1821, Karystos played a significant role in supplying the fortresses of the Peloponnese and Crete.

The leaders of the revolution in Evia island, such as Veroussis, Gobios, and the bishop of Karystos Neophytos, sparked the revolution in the region in May 1821, forcing the Turks to retreat to the fortresses of Karystos and Chalkida. Despite initial defeats, the Greeks managed to crush the forces of Omer Vryonis at Vrysakia.

The Turks of Karystos repeatedly sought reinforcements and supplies as they faced continuous siege. Eventually, Odysseas Androutsos attempted to besiege Karystos in 1822 but quickly withdrew. In the following years, in 1823 and 1824, the Turks continued to receive reinforcements from Smyrna and resisted the attacks of the Greeks.

Revolutionary activity peaked in 1825 with a naval battle in front of the castle of Karystos and continued with the siege of Karystos by Fabvier in 1826, which lasted 24 days with a final victory for the Turkish forces.

Finally, in 1829, after negotiations and gradual normalization of conditions, Karystos was ceded to the newly established Greek state, marking the beginning of a new chapter of freedom and reorganization.

Amazing Sights and Natural Landscapes of Wild Beauty: From the Caves of Ochi and the Gorge of Dymossari, to the Wind Gates of Cavo Doro

The region of Karystos is a treasure trove of history and tradition, with its unique sights, picturesque villages, and local products reflecting a wealth of culture. Here, traditional arts, music, and dance are intertwined with the most famous Cape of the central Aegean, the legendary Cape of Kafireas as locally named, or commonly known as Cavo Doro, under the imposing massif of Mount Ochi with its mysterious Dragon's Lair.

Discovering the Natural Beauty of Karystos: Unique Natural Attractions

The natural wealth of the area is unique, with many sites designated as Natura 2000 protected areas. However, the intense presence of wind parks in the area raises concerns among nature conservation organizations regarding their impact on the natural environment.

The remote picturesque villages of Cavo Doro hide magical landscapes and natural attractions as well as beaches of unique beauty, creating the dominant character of the eastern coastline of Karystos.

Mount Ochi, which often ends with gorges and ravines into the sea, and the wild nature with its aged and wind-sculpted trees, and the remote churches that suddenly protrude, create a spectacular and unique landscape.

Emphasizing the magic of nature, Mount Kastanologos, which is the only chestnut forest with centuries-old chestnut trees, the impressive Gorge of Dimosaris with its waterfalls and unique flora and fauna, as well as the waterfalls of Platanistos with the stone bridge known as the "bridge of lovers", and Panochori, with its magical landscape, its springs, the Watermill, and the picturesque stone bridge, highlight the true beauty of the area, creating a world full of mystery.

Kastanologos: The Enchanted Centuries-old Chestnut Forest of Karystos

Kastanologos, widely known as the Chestnut Forest or simply chestnuts, is an area in Karystos located below the Peak of Mount Ochi at 900 to 1100 meters and hosts a rare centuries-old chestnut forest. This historic area, known as "Longos" by the old residents, is deeply connected to antiquity.

Ancient writers such as Theophrastus, Athenaeus, and Chrysostom Dion document the existence of ancient wild chestnut forests in the area, from which the Karystian chestnuts, known for their indigestion but also their historical value, likely originate.

Kastanologos remains a monument of natural heritage, with trees estimated to be between 200 and 450 years old, serving as a link to the distant past of the area. Aerial photography and satellite images have shown that the forest has undergone a significant reduction in the number of its trees, mainly on the south side, from 1945 to the present.

In the area, there is also the Mount Ochi Mountaineering Refuge in a stunning location, next to the ancient chestnut forest and near a source of drinking water. This location, at an altitude of 1050 meters, offers stunning views and is the ideal place for nature lovers and mountain activities enthusiasts.

The peak of Mount Ochi, at an altitude of 1398 meters, is approximately an hour's walk from the refuge, offering an additional enchanting hike. The refuge is jointly managed by the Giokaleio Foundation of Karystos and the Federation of Nature-Loving-Mountaineering-Excursionist Associations of Greece.

The amazing Gorge of Dimosaris

The gorge is located on the northwestern side of Mount Ochi, with a total length of approximately 10 kilometers, and is one of the most beautiful natural ecosystems in Greece and a popular destination for hikers from all over the world.

The Gorge of Dimosaris is protected and belongs to the Natura 2000 network, as it constitutes a habitat of rare flora and fauna. Admire the characteristic blue dragonflies and wildflowers, while eagles, owls, kingfishers, and newts will accompany you throughout the route. There are many snakes in the gorge, so if you cross it in the summer, make sure you are appropriately dressed.

The hiking trail starts at the location of Petrokanalo (at an altitude of 950 meters), where you can reach by car, and ends at the beach of Kallianoi. The path is marked and easily accessible. To your left runs the Dimosaris stream, which crosses the gorge and flows into the Aegean Sea.

Shortly after the settlement of Lenosaeoi is the location of Scala, the narrowest point of the gorge, where small waterfalls and natural swimming pools are formed. Those who are daring, try diving in. However, be prepared, as the running crystal-clear waters of the stream are icy even in the summer.

The route has dense vegetation and is downhill throughout its length. It is considered relatively easy, while the distance to Kallianos is covered in about 4 to 5 hours, depending on your pace. The initial section to Lenosaeoi, where you walk on a medieval paved path, is steeper.

From there downwards, the route follows the bed of the stream to the little bridge of Kallianoi beach, while the descent becomes easier.

If you do not want to return by the same route (which is uphill on the way back), you will need to arrange for transportation from the beach of Kallianoi.

On the coastal road of Karystos, there is a special kiosk where you can get a map of the gorge and learn details about the area or contact one of the many outdoor clubs to join an organised hiking experience.

The Wind Gates and the Wild Beauty of Cavo Doro

At the tip of Cavo Doro, the landscape is embraced by aged trees and the church of Agios Grigorios, overlooking the lighthouse of Arapi on the eponymous rocky islet, which wards off the famous maritime currents and winds of the area, creating a unique landscape.

The terrain morphology in the area of Cavo Doro or Kafireas is mainly mountainous, with few plain areas serving as pastures. Here, nature exudes a rich variety, with olive trees, oaks, heather, plane trees, and other hydrophilic plants complementing the flora of the region.

The area of Ochi is a true botanical paradise for Greece and Europe, hosting over 700 plant species, including rare, endemic, or protected ones. The endemic plants of the area have survived on the rugged mountain, high winds and wild shores of Ochi, making the region unique.

Beyond the rich vegetation, the area hosts a variety of wild animals that contribute to its ecological diversity. Foxes, hares, badgers, partridges, and many other bird species live here, composing a beautiful ecosystem that captures the imagination.

Visiting the waterfalls of Platanistos and the Bridge of Lovers is a unique experience, as you walk through dense forest, admiring the waterfalls and optionally taking a dip in the cool waters.

Apart from the waterfall, a stroll offers discoveries at many sights, such as the springs and the traditional watermill in Panochori, the stone bridge of Artini craftsmanship in Mastrogianneika, the grand ancient walls in Elliniko, and the church of Agios Konstantinos and Agia Eleni, built with marbles from the ancient buildings of the area.

The enchanting Archampolis Gorge

The Archampolis Gorge, hidden between the scenic villages of Drymonari and Thymi in the area of Kafireas, is a natural treasure with rich history and unique biodiversity. The vertical cliffs and dramatic turns of the gorge create a landscape of wild beauty, culminating in a dreamy beach.

The historical significance of the area is enhanced by the ruins of the ancient city and the acropolis dating from the 6th to the 7th century BC, providing evidence of a once flourishing civilization. The presence of slag on the beach and among the ruins also proves the historical metallurgical activity of the area.

In addition to its historical and geological significance, the Archampolis Gorge is an important habitat for wildlife. The steep cliffs and inaccessible places host endemic plants and provide refuge to rare birds such as the owl and various raptors.

Hikers wishing to explore the gorge and the beach of Archampolis should have relevant experience or choose to visit it through hiking and mountaineering clubs that organize trips to the area.

Reaching the far end of the Cape with Agios Grigorios Chapel and the Lighthouse on the Arapi Islet

The journey to the Cape of Cavo Doro culminates upon reaching the chapel of Agios Grigorios, where you will behold a unique landscape. The chapel of Ayios Grigorios, the trees weathered by relentless winds, and the imposing backdrop of the Ochi mountain range create a scene straight out of a fairy tale. To the east of the chapel, you will discover the two small beaches of Agios Grigorios, two stretches of sand nestled among the rugged cliffs.

Across from the enchanting beaches and the iconic chapel, stands the majestic Arapi Lighthouse, proudly perched atop the islet of the same name, located half a mile northeast of the Cape of Cavo Doro. The history of the lighthouse dates back to the distant year of 1925, and since then, it has been a historic landmark for navigation in the area.

Standing at a height of 5 meters with a focal height of 34 meters, the Arapi Lighthouse impresses with its presence. Its lantern emits two white flashes every 15 seconds, illuminating the night and guiding ships up to a distance of 10 nautical miles. The wind-swept islet and its lighthouse serve not only as a beacon for sailors but also as a symbol of resilience and stability over time.

The Remarkable Archaeological Sites of Karystos

The Mysterious Dragon House of Ochi

In Evia island, there are several megalithic structures, known as Dragon Houses, scattered throughout the region of Karystos, astounding visitors with their size and unique architecture.

Most of the 25 mysterious structures discovered to date are built near Nea Styra, with the most easily accessible one located in the village of Kapsala. However, the most impressive and well-structured one is situated near Karystos and Marmari, known as the Dragon House of Ochi. This cyclopean construction stands at an altitude of 1,386 meters, just before the summit of Mount Ochi names Profitis Elias (Prophet Elias) and to the east of the homonymous chapel.

According to one theory, the Dragon House of Ochi was a sanctuary dedicated to Zeus and Hera. Alternatively, it served as a residence for quarry workers, while according to a third interpretation, it was a Roman guard post protecting the quarries of Karystos.

The stone structure is estimated to have been built between the 6th century BC and the 2nd or 1st century BC. It is also speculated to have been constructed by Kares slaves or Dryops, who migrated to Southern Evia after being expelled from Mount Parnassus.

The Dragon House is impressive from every angle. It is built with gigantic schist slabs, placed in layers. It's worth noting that the slabs are not connected to each other with any structural material, and the building has no foundations. Its roof is pyramidal, while its entrance consists of three large, smooth stones arranged in a Π shape.

As with the other Dragon Houses, the purpose, precise dating, and who constructed it continue to be subjects of research for archaeologists, inspiring countless legends. In any case, a visit to the Dragon House of Ochi is a unique experience not to be missed: its commanding position and incredibly imposing architecture will literally astonish you.

To access the Dragon House of Ochi, you need a car and sturdy legs, as climbing to the summit requires hiking.

Ancient Quarries on Mount Ochi

While Karystos is widely known today for its schist stone, in antiquity, the famous green marble was the region's primary export. Since ancient times, Karystos intensively exploited its quarries, which were under Roman imperial supervision (1st century BC - 2nd century AD).

Karystian marble, also known as "Karystian stone" or "Cipollino," the white-green marble with characteristic veins, became one of the most sought-after building materials throughout the Mediterranean.

It was used in many secular and religious buildings, enhancing the region's reputation and economic power. Besides its well-known use in Karystos itself, Karystian marble was one of the most sought-after construction materials in significant ancient buildings.

In Athens, it was used in the Library of Hadrian, while in Rome, it impressed in works such as the Imperial Forums, the Odeon of Domitian, the Flavian Amphitheater, and the Temple of Concordia.

Its use continued during the Byzantine period, with the marble adorning prominent monuments such as Hagia Sophia in Constantinople, the basilica of Saint Demetrios in Thessaloniki, and the Monastery of Osios Loukas in Phokis, among others.

Witnesses to the historic activity of the ancient quarry are five impressive 12-meter-long sculpted monolithic columns, or cylinders as they are referred to today, which are preserved at the foot of Mount Ochi in the area of Kylindroi Myloi, constituting significant archaeological findings. These columns lie abandoned in the ground at a location that offers a magical view of Karystos.

550 meters west of the Kylindroi, another impressive find related to the Roman quarries is located: the Tsoukali. This sculpted round monolith has an outer diameter of 2.7 meters and an inner diameter of 1.8 meters, with a depth of half a meter.

To visit the ancient Roman quarries, you can follow a relatively easy path lasting about 1 hour starting from outside the Mills. This route offers an excellent opportunity to explore the natural and historical wealth of Karystos while enjoying the breathtaking scenery of the area.

Adding to the interest is the fact that remnants of Roman quarries can be discovered in other places as well, such as on the southern side of Mount Kafireas, between the beaches of Avlakia and the area of Agioi.

Ancient City of Archampolis

The gorge of Archampolis, combining history and natural beauty, reveals a rich past unfolding through the ruins and archaeological excavations.

In the region of Kafireas, the impressive ravine ends at the homonymous beach, where the remains of an ancient settlement have been found, which developed during the Archaic times and continued until the Roman period. The findings indicate the presence of an organized residential complex, including houses, religious spaces, and metalworking workshops.

Excavations have revealed buildings and structures confirming the metallurgical activity of the area, such as iron furnaces and tanks, dating from the Classical to the late Hellenistic period, which continued into the Roman era. The abandonment of the site seems to have occurred violently, with indications suggesting a catastrophic earthquake or invasion, leaving behind scattered human bones and disorderly ruins.

At a distance of 1.5 kilometers from the coast, on a rocky and conical promontory characterized as the "Acropolis" of the area, buildings of a settlement, roads, and metalworking workshops were identified.

The recognition of Archampolis as the possible ancient city of Aiges, mentioned by Homer, enhances the historical significance of the area. Studies and excavations continue to provide information about the ancient use of the site, which appears to have been a center for both worship and the exploitation of natural resources.

The natural landscape and archaeological treasures of Archampolis invite further exploration and discovery of this historical and natural refuge.

Archaeological Museum of Karystos

The Archaeological Museum is housed in the western wing of the Giokaleio Cultural Center, located near the Venetian Mpourtzi Tower on the eastern side of the port of Karystos.

The museum belongs to the 11th Ephorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities. Its collection includes sculptures, inscriptions, and figurines excavated in the wider area of Karystia and Styra, with exhibits dating from the prehistoric era to the Roman period. The museum also exhibits findings from the legendary Dragon Houses of Ochi.

Although small in size, the exhibition is exceptionally interesting, while the explanatory panels in the museum's two halls provide the visitor with a fairly detailed picture of the historical evolution of the area. Note that guided tours are organized by the local Ephorate of Antiquities upon arrangement.

Roman Mausoleum in Karystos

The ruins of a Roman Mausoleum preserved in the modern city of Karystos reflect the rich history and heritage of the area. The mausoleum is associated with a Roman official who is said to have overseen the quarries, demonstrating the importance of managing these resources for the empire. It has the structure of an almost square peristyle temple and bears on the pediment a circular medallion containing the bust of the honored Roman official.

Roman Aqueduct "Kamares" between the Mills and Grambia

The Roman aqueduct, known as "Kamares," was essential for the water supply of the upper part of the old town and is located on the northern slopes of the hill of Castello Rosso. It was the main water source for the castle, drawing water from the source of Montofoli, which was located on the slopes of Mount Ochi.

This impressive construction was built of stones connected with mortar, a material that ensured the adherence and preservation of the stones. The cliff above the aqueduct rises imposingly to the walls of the castle, adding a theatrical sense to the landscape.

The Medieval "Gems" of Karystos

The Red Castle (Castello Rosso) of Karystos stands imposingly overlooking the town, evoking epic eras through the passage of time

The impressive medieval red fortress, known as Castello Rosso or Kokinokastro by the locals, is located at the foot of Mount Ochi, between the villages of Grambia and Myloi, just 4 kilometers from Karystos. The striking fortress took its name from the reddish schist stones with which it is built, giving it a slightly reddish hue.

According to researchers, the castle was constructed by the Lombards, specifically by the Veronese baron Ravano dalle Carceri, between 1209 and 1216, on the foundations of a Byzantine fortress that previously existed on the hill.

It served as an administrative center and was a subject of contention for all conquerors who passed through the Karystos region, with the Franks and the Catalans holding it successively until 1359, when the latter sold the fiefdom of Karystos to the Venetians for 6,000 ducats. During the Frankish rule, Castello was one of the best-fortified castles in Evia, and a large settlement developed around it by residents of nearby villages seeking security.

After 1470, the castle fell into the hands of the Turks, who called it Kizil Hisar. During the Greek War of Independence, Castello Rosso was besieged by Odysseas Androutsos, the Evian captain Nikolaos Kriezotis, and the French philhellene Fabvier, but they failed to conquer it. The fortress was liberated after the withdrawal of the Turks from Evia in 1833.

The castle had double walls and a large inner courtyard. Today, mainly the outer walls, sections of the inner fortifications, and the first level of various buildings that served as residences, warehouses, and guard quarters are preserved.

From its commanding position, you can admire the unrestricted view towards the Gulf of Karystos and the plain that stretches out in front, while marveling at the rare wildflowers that bloom on the fortress walls.

Venetian Fortress Mpourtzi in Karystos

The Venetian fortress stands as the hallmark of Karystos. Located on the coastal road of the town, at the eastern end of the harbor, it was built in 1350. According to archaeologists, marbles and slabs from the Roman mausoleum that previously existed in the city were used in its construction, at the site where the market center stands today.

The fortress remains intact and is one of the best-preserved medieval monuments in Evia. It is two stories tall, hexagonal in shape, with double walls and an inner courtyard. There are a total of 24 embrasures in its fortifications, while the walls have battlements all around.

Characteristic of the construction is the low, arched gate secured by a double-leafed iron door, as well as the embedded sculpture, which is believed to belong to the Roman era and was placed at the site as a decorative element.

During the summer months, the Mpourtzi hosts an art exhibition featuring works by artists from Karystos and Southern Evia. Don't miss it: apart from the artistic interest, the interior of the fortress is a unique and imposing space worth visiting.

The Contemporary Cultural Scene of the City

Giokaleio Cultural Center of Karystos

The Giokaleio Cultural Center is a significant cultural institution in Karystos, complementing nearly half a century of existence. Inaugurated in 1972, it is a legacy of the Karystian benefactor Nikolaos Giokalas.

It features a library with 11,000 volumes, a reading room, and a multipurpose hall with a capacity of 250 seats. The hall hosts cultural and musical events, lectures, theatrical performances, seminars, and school celebrations, as well as open municipal councils.

Events are organized throughout the year, so it's worth checking out the program during your visit.

As previously mentioned, in the western wing of the Cultural Center houses the Archaeological Museum of Karystos, whose collection includes sculptures, inscriptions, and statues from the wider area of Karystia, as well as findings from the legendary Dragon Houses of Ochi.

The Giokaleio Cultural Center is located at 58 Kriezotou Street, almost opposite the Venetian Mpourtzi and the Mpournia Park.

Outdoor Seaside Theater of Karystos: A New Cultural Beacon in Evia

The construction of the new outdoor theater on the eastern waterfront of Karystos is one of the most significant collaborations between the State of Sterea Ellada and the Municipality of Karystos.

The theater was recently handed over to the residents of the area and promises to become the center of many summer events. The "Musical Summer" series of events will include a series of concerts with free admission, aimed at entertaining residents and visitors, as well as highlighting significant cultural and artistic events.

Sources: Wikipedia, Ministry of Culture, Castles of Greece