The Venetian Castle of Milos, also known as Plaka Castle, is one of the key historical sites on the Greek island of Milos. Perched on the hill of Prophet Elias, this historical site offers stunning panoramic views of the island, making the climb well worth the effort.
From the top, you can take in the beauty of the coastline surrounding Milos, including the famous beaches of Sarakiniko, Plathiena, and Firopotomus. The hike takes about an hour from Plaka, and along the way, you'll encounter charming, whitewashed churches that add to the experience.
The path to the Venetian Castle winds through the picturesque village of Plaka, with its traditional architecture, seen throughout the Cyclades Islands, and narrow streets. As you ascend, you’ll pass two historic churches — Panagia Thalassitra and Panagia Korfiatissa.
These churches, built in the 19th century, offer a peaceful stop before you reach the hilltop. Panagia Thalassitra is dedicated to the patron saint of sailors, reflecting Milos' deep maritime history. The views from this vantage point are unforgettable, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.
While only parts of the Venetian Castle remain today, walking among the ruins gives you a sense of the island’s past. The castle doesn’t feature massive fortification walls like other European castles, but its strategic position at 280 meters above sea level provided natural defense.
A gate known as Porta still stands, which once served as the main entrance. Another notable feature is Portopoula, a hidden emergency exit used during times of siege.
The Venetian Castle dates back to the 13th century when the Venetians ruled Milos and built the fortress to secure their presence in the region. The castle was more than just a military structure; it was the center of life on the island.
Around the castle, the Venetians created the settlement of Chora, which grew rapidly thanks to thriving trade. By the late 13th century, the settlement was flourishing, with Venetians growing crops, raising livestock, and mining valuable resources like sulfur and salt. The prosperity attracted traders but also pirates, leading to the construction of defensive structures around the castle to protect the island’s inhabitants.
As centuries passed, the Venetian Castle became a symbol of the island’s shifting political landscape. In the 16th and 17th centuries, European wars and pirate raids led to a complicated mix of cultures on the island. However, the Venetians finally lost control to the Ottoman Turks in the late 17th century, and the castle began to decline.
Volcanic activity and natural disasters in the 18th century forced many residents to leave the main settlement, and they sought refuge in the castle area, creating a new village that survives today as Plaka. Despite the castle’s decline, the village remains a lively destination that continually attracts visitors from Mediterranean yacht charters.
An immersive addition to a Milos or Greece yacht charter and a perfect way to immerse yourself in the charm of Milos, speak with a yacht charter broker to arrange your visit and make this stunning location part of your island-hopping adventure.
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