Neratzia Castle, also known as the Castle of the Knights, is a 14th-century fortress built by the Knights of Saint John on the island of Kos, Greece. It stands at the entrance to the port, on a stretch of land that was once an island.
History:
- Built between 1436 and 1514 AD, it's one of the most characteristic examples of Knights Templar architecture in the Dodecanese Islands.
- The castle was built on the site of a former Byzantine fortress and incorporated architectural elements from ancient Kos and the Asklepieion.
- During the Ottoman occupation, it was used as barracks.
- The Italians restored the castle to its original state during their occupation.
- It was later declared a national monument.
Architecture and Features:
- The castle has two fortified enclosures: the inner and the outer.
- The inner enclosure, built before the end of the 14th century, features the oldest surviving building, a circular tower with the coats of arms of Grand Masters of the Knights Hospitaller.
- The outer enclosure, begun in the late 15th century, was completed in 1514.
- The castle's walls are decorated with ancient inscriptions and relief sculptures.
- The interior features preserved remains of guardhouses, staircases, and storerooms.
- The moat on the city side of the castle was transformed into a wide avenue in 1878.
Visiting Neratzia Castle:
- The castle is a popular tourist attraction and offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the town of Kos.
- It's a great place to learn about the history of the Knights of Saint John and the island of Kos.
- The castle hosts occasional outdoor art exhibitions and museum events.
Additional Information:
- The castle is temporarily closed for restoration.
- The castle is located near the Hippocrates Tree.
Overall, Neratzia Castle is a fascinating historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the island's past.