The medieval castle forms the most important part of the fortifications of the island of Kos, built by the Knights Templar at the end of the 14th century. The Knights of the Order of St. John, also known as Johanites or Knights of Malta, ruled the island of Kos for more than 200 years and the construction of the fortress was truly extensive. Construction of the castle began around 1380 as part of a defensive system against raids by the Ottomans and pirates. The castle was gradually expanded and improved until the early 16th century, when it reached its final form.

The castle was originally built on a small island near the town of Kos and was connected to the mainland by a drawbridge. The bridge is still there today, but a road was built underneath it for convenience and safety. The fortress consists of two retaining walls and a wide moat fills the space between them. The coat of arms of St. John is preserved at the gate on the outer fortification. The inner retaining wall is older and is guarded by four tall round towers at the corners. The entire inner wall is decorated with ancient inscriptions and relief sculptures, and the guard houses (bastions), staircases and storerooms have been preserved inside the castle. The most important is the so-called Del Carretto bastion, named after one of the Grand Masters of the Order, Fabio Del Carretto, who was instrumental in expanding and strengthening the castle's defences.

Neratzia Castle is a typical example of fortress architecture from the medieval period. The entrance to the fortress is via a massive stone bridge and its walls are massive and made of local stone, which ensured their resistance to attacks and the elements. Building fragments from various places on the island of Kos were used in the construction of the castle, and a large number of them came from the now famous archaeological site of Asklepion. Ancient stone remains are visible especially on the walls.

Neratzia Castle played a key role in the defence of Kos against Ottoman attacks, although the island was eventually conquered by the Turks in 1522. After the conquest, the castle was also used by the Ottoman Turks, who adapted it to their needs. Over the centuries, the castle lost its military importance and gradually decayed, but remained an important historical and cultural heritage of the island. In 1816, however, an accidental explosion destroyed a large part of the castle. It was not until Italian historians and restorers attempted to restore the fortress to its original form during Italian rule. It was also partially damaged in the 1933 earthquake. However, many parts of the castle have been preserved, restoration work has been carried out and today Neratzia Castle is one of the main tourist attractions on Kos. There is a museum on the castle grounds, where statues, inscribed plaques and other objects can be seen.

This majestic castle, whose name comes from the Greek word for bitter orange tree ("nerantzi"), has a rich history within its walls and is one of the finest examples of medieval military architecture in the Dodecanese islands. It is located right in the capital of Kos, just a few minutes walk from the harbour. It offers visitors spectacular views of the Aegean Sea and the nearby Turkish coast, and the stone bridge that once spanned a deep moat is a great place to take memorable photographs.

More touristic destinations of Kos

Most favourite sights of Kos: Agora (archaeological site), Archaeological Museum (Kos Town), Asklepion (archaeological site), Neratzia Castle, Roman Odeon, Old town of Paleo Pili

Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Kos.