Updated August 13, 2024
Leros, one of the beautiful islands of the Dodecanese, hosts the imposing Castle of Panagia, also known as the Castle of Panteli. This Byzantine structure from the 11th or 12th century stands atop the hill Pytyos, also known as Apityki, on the northeastern side of the island at an elevation of 150 meters. The castle covers an area of about 10 acres and, according to Dionysios Oikonomopoulos, was considered highly fortified and impregnable.
Historical Overview
The castle is surrounded by three layers of walls that protect the hilltop. Since 1087, it has been associated with Saint Christodoulos, the founder of the Monastery of Patmos, as per the golden bull decree of Alexios I Komnenos. When Saint Christodoulos took over the castle, it was in very poor condition, consisting only of the enclosure, a church with cells, and a few dilapidated buildings.
Over the centuries, the castle saw numerous conquests. In the 13th century, the Genoese and later the Venetians occupied Leros. In 1309, the Knights Hospitaller seized and fortified the island, as evidenced by the seven coats of arms found in various positions of the fortifications. In the mid-15th century, strengthening works were carried out under the leadership of the Knight Hospitaller Fandino Cuerini, the island’s governor.
