Europe’s ‘unforgettable’ castle town built to be invisible that’s the continent’s ‘oldest’

A stunning town constructed to be invisible from the mainland to avoid enemy attacks (Image: Getty)

A town that was constructed to be invisible from the mainland to avoid enemy attacks is oldest continuously inhabited castle town.

This magical spot was entirely carved on the backside of a sea rock in Medieval times and was founded all the way back in 583.

A step into this gem takes a traveller to a man-made road with stone bridges that leads up to a grand castle gate and the main entrance to this castle town.

A journey through this majestic castle town is a trip to the past, offering a lively citadel rich in culture with breathtaking sea views.

Few regions can boast of having the combined charm of natural beauty, historical significance and a fairytale-like ambience to the extent that Monemvasia does.

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Aerial view of the old town of Monemvasia in Lakonia of Peloponnese, Greece.

Monemvasia is surrounded by crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea with magic everywhere you look (Image: Getty)

Located in Laconia, and is home to the famous Greek poet, Yannis Ritsos, who is buried here.

The region has been ruled by Crusader knights, Venetians, Ottomans and many others with its stone walls retaining many of its unique architectural heritage and charm from all its previous cultures.

This medieval castle town has been described as one of the most romantic places in the world and, after its recent resurgence, well deserves a spot on your next bucket list.

Many of Monemvasia’s ancient buildings have been restored and renovated, turning them into tavernas and hotels for tourists to enjoy.

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Monemvasia houses and church, Peloponnese, Greece

The region features a cornucopia of cobbled streets featuring artisans shops and cafes (Image: Getty)

Monemvasia

This medieval castle town has been described as one of the most romantic places (Image: Getty)

Travel around Monemvasia is only by foot with a meandering cornucopia of cobbled streets featuring artisans shops, cafes, restaurants and boutiques scattered throughout.

Take a leisurely stroll down the winding streets and soak up the sights of elegant stone mansions and the Byzantine churches.

In fact, there are 24 temples and churches with Byzantine elements that still remain in Monemvasia today with a number of historical buildings to explore too.

Must-visit sights here include the Church of Elkomenos Christos, Monemvasia Archaeological Museum and the Church of Agia Sofia with the the most historic lighthouses in Greece also well worth a visit.

Activities in Monemvasia include sunbathing with any of its stunning beaches providing the perfect spot to relax and unwind including the Pori Monemvasias beach, Mandraki beach and Xifias beach.

Hiking enthusiasts will be in for a treat here, too, with an array of old footpaths that cross the region, providing breathtaking views in almost every direction you look.

“Has been kept in pretty good shape for its age. Cute little shops with some beautiful crafts and trinkets,” read one review on TripAdvisor.

Another added: “We ended up going to Monemvasia instead of Kalamata due to rough seas on the cruise we were on and I am so glad I got to see this stunning little town, it’s just a place you don’t forget.”

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