Κάστρο Λέρου (Παντελίου) — Attraction in Municipality of Leros

Panteli Castle Leros: The Byzantine-era imposing Panteli Fortress in Agia Marina on Leros is one of the island's absolute highlights. On its western side is the small Panagia Church, the religious symbol of Leros.

The imposing and spectacular Panteli Fortress was built in the Middle Ages in Byzantine times on the Apitiki hill to protect the inhabitants of Leros from pirate attacks. It can be reached either on foot on a hiking trail over approximately 500 steps from the port of Agia Marina or by bike via a serpentine road past the picturesque windmills hill.

The religious symbol of the island, the Panagia church, stands on the west side of the fortress. According to legend, the Panagia icon can do wonders: she came out of the sea, stood between two candles in the black powder chamber of the fortress and was not displaced despite the efforts of the then Agas. The church bell, made of bronze and silver, is the work of Russian master craftsmen. Equally impressive is the icon wall from 1745.

The Panteli Fortress offers a great panoramic view of the whole island and the surrounding Aegean Sea. You will be rewarded for the scenic, but quite exhaustive driveway with a sensational downhill stage to Agia Marina, where you can enjoy a coffee break in the picturesque fishing port after visiting the Kastro.

Open: from Tuesday to Sunday 9 am - 6...

The Castle of Panteli (also called the Castle of Panagia) is an absolute must-see when visiting Leros. Perched high above Panteli and Agia Marina, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the Aegean.

The castle itself has a rich history, dating back to Byzantine times and later fortified by the Knights of St. John. Walking through its gates feels like stepping into another century. Inside you’ll also find the Church of Panagia, where you can venerate the relics of Saint (Osia) Gavrilia, adding a deeply spiritual layer to the visit. We saw that there is also a museum but it was not open during the time we visited.

Don’t rely on Google Maps for opening hours, they’re not accurate. It’s best to ask locals before going, as times can vary. Entrance is completely free. Getting there requires either a drive up the hill or a fairly steep walk with many steps, we went twice, once with a motorbike and also walking. The scenery around the castle is also spectacular and you can combine it with a visit to...

This is a huge Castle, mostly in ruins, with absolutely fantastic views! Exploring all around the grounds was fun, but there wasn't many informational signs on the history. There are also several medieval, cave-like churches and the Ecclesiastical Museum at Our Lady of Kastro aka Historical Museum on Byzantine Art and Antiquities aka Antonelos Museum. There was an enthusiastic guide there who told us the entire history of the island, and many artifacts displayed. We were staying a week on Leros in September 2019 and I'm so glad I visited here! I took a taxi up for 10 Euro then walked down the stairs to Agia Marina where...