New fortress (Pylos)

The new fortress of Pylos or Niokastro stands on a hill near the city, on the seashore. It was built by the Turks in 1573 to protect the port, which was located in a huge natural bay. This is best seen on the satellite image.


Like many other Greek fortresses, this one is in very good condition. Few times the fortress changed its owner, belonged to Venice (1686-1715), Turkey, Greece and even Russia (1770). It was of military importance until 1828, when the city of Pylos was founded. After that, the fortress was turned into a prison.




Find here opening times and prices.

Getting there: parking N 36 54.768 E 21 41.529. By bus from Methoni, Kalamata and Kiparissia. From Athens (Kifisos station) go to Kalamata (schedule), then change to a bus to Pylos.