On the shores of central Evia, just 14 km southeast of Chalkida and a mere 2 km from Vasiliko village, lies Lefkandi—a place that, at first glance, might seem like just another relaxed seaside resort. But scratch the surface (quite literally, as archaeologists have done), and you’ll discover one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece, a place that rewrote the … [Read more...]
Castello Rosso (Kokkinokastro): The Crimson Fortress of Karystos
Perched atop the conical hill of Monte Folli, just 4 kilometers inland from Karystos, the Castello Rosso—or Kokkinokastro, as it's known in Greek—is one of the most commanding medieval fortresses in southern Evia. Its name, meaning "Red Castle," comes from the distinct reddish slate stones quarried locally, giving the walls a unique hue that glows under the Aegean sun. Though … [Read more...]
The Twin Towers of Mytikas: Medieval Guardians of the Lelantine Plain
In the quiet countryside of central Evia, just outside the village of Mytikas, stand two unexpected sentinels of stone—the Twin Towers of Mytikas. Rising above the fertile Lelantine Plain, these 15th-century Venetian watchtowers are not only remarkable for their preservation and architectural detail, but also for their rare proximity to each other—a mere 200 meters apart. Their … [Read more...]
Metaxa Bunker: the WWII-Era Coastal Fortress of Northern Evia
Perched on the coast below the village of Gouves, the Metaxa Bunker—also known locally as the Fort of Gouves—was part of the naval defense system constructed in 1938 under Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas. One of eight similar fortifications along Greece's key maritime routes, its mission was to defend the entrance to the Northern Euboean and Pagasitic Gulfs, safeguarding naval … [Read more...]
The Castle of Fylla: Echoes of a Knight’s Revenge in the Heart of Evia
Perched on a rugged hilltop east of Chalkida, the Castle of Fylla—known locally as Kastelli and often referred to as the no castle due to the large “ΟΧΙ” (no in Greek) that is inscribed on its wall—is more than just another medieval ruin. This stone sentinel overlooking the fertile Lelantine Plain is a symbol of fierce ambition, personal betrayal, and imperial politics. Once … [Read more...]
Ancient Dystos at Dystos Lake: A Forgotten Stronghold in South Evia
Tucked in the narrowing middle of South Evia, between the modern towns of Aliveri and Karystos, lies a landscape that seems half-submerged in both water and time. This is the valley of Dystos, a wide plain partially flooded by a shrinking lake and ringed by limestone hills that block any view of the sea. In its center rises a steep, marble cone of a hill, 300 meters tall, and … [Read more...]
Eretria: Ancient Glory and Seaside Escape on Evia Island
Eretria, located on the southern coast of central Evia along the South Euboic Gulf, is a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern seaside leisure. Often referred to as part of the “Euboic Riviera” due to its scenic beaches and charming resorts, the town also lies at the foothills of Mount Olympus of Evia. Once one of the most prominent city-states in ancient Greece, … [Read more...]
