The castle was constructed during the Knights’ era. In fact, the residents were forced to build a new castle which would be used as a residence for the governor of Kalymnos, Kos, Leros and Nisyros islands, and as a defense against the increasing pirate raids.

Structure, Fortification & Buildings

It is roughly diamond-shaped in plan, facing south, with the other sides mostly secured by the steepness of the rocky ground. The main gate was on the north side, but access was also possible through the south wall. Another gate on the east side of the south wall was later in date.

Near the castle, you can also see the three stone-built windmills, which are the “trademark” of Kalymnos. They were constructed after 1522 and, occasionally, they were used for defense too.

On the masonry of the semicircular tower of the south side are the arms of Fantino Querini, Hospitaller governor of Cos, and of grand master (of Rhodes) Jean de Lastic (1437-1454). On the south wall may be seen the arms of the Order of St. John and of Knight Fra Juan Geltru, governor of Cos after 1466.

Inside the castle, there are a few buildings maintained in realatively good condition: a mineral and built food store, and two churches, the newest one of St. George and the oldest one of Virgin Mary.