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Kithira

The Town of Kithira is the small capital of the island (just 600 people), and is very interesting in its traditionally narrow streets and old churches. The Venetian fort has existed for many centuries and houses many churches that are worth a visit. There is an Archaeological museum with many interesting local findings. A number of places offer culinary delights, with spectacular views.

The island's capital, Hora, built on a hill high above the sea, is a model of Venetian defensive architecture. Its narrow streets and fortified mansions were intended as protection against pirate raids. The town is dominated by the Venetian castle (1503), which has a spectacular view of the Cretan sea. The Archaeological Museum contains an important collection of Minoan vases, Mycenaean pottery and finds from the Archaic and Classical periods.

The island of Kithira lies opposite the eastern tip of the Peloponnese, Cape Malea. Its scenery is unique - rugged and dramatic, while its architecture is a blend of traditional, Aegean and Venetian elements.

Kapsali: The island's main tourist centre is a charming twin harbour lined by beaches - Yialos, Sparangarlo and Kapsalaki - "in the shadow" of the Hora's castle.

Livadi: This village lies 4 kilometres from Hora on the main road between the capital and Kapsali. Here you can see the lovely old church of Ayios Andreas with its 12th century frescoes. Also of interest in this area are the monasteries of Agia Elesa (4 km. SW) and the Panayia Myrtidiotissa (7 km. W), which has a superb view of the sea.

Mylopotamos: One of the most beautiful medieval villages on Kithira with exemplary traditional architecture. Among the sights worth seeing here are the miniature Venetian castle, the monastery of "the Panayia tis Orfanis", the waterfall at Fonissa and the Cave dedicated to Ayia Sophia. You'll see notices in Hora announcing when the church/cave is open.

Potamos (19 km. from Hora): The largest village on the island, and is Kithira's chief marketplace. There is a Byzantine church here dedicated to the Saints Theodore and the churches of Ayios loannis, Ayia Anastasia and the Saviour (Sotiros) are also worth a visit for their fine icons and frescoes.

Karavas: A lonely, well-watered village, 26 km. north of Hora. Kithira will appeal to those who are in search of a quiet holiday. Prospective visitors should be warned that accommodation is extremely limited at the height of summer and that the bus service between villages is not as frequent as might be desired.

Agia Pelagia: One of the Island's two main ports, it is situated on its north coast 28 kilometres from Hora. This developing resort is linked by bus with the capital and the larger villages.

 

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