181 properties found
Unknown City, Unknown Country
Clinging dramatically to the verdant slopes of Mount Taygetos near Sparta, Mystras stands as a haunting Byzantine castle-city often called "the Wonder of the Morea." This sprawling medieval complex encompasses a fortress, palaces, monasteries, and churches spread across a steep hillside amid cypress trees and wildflowers. Founded in 1249 by Frankish crusaders but soon taken over by Byzantine Greeks, Mystras flourished as the cosmopolitan capital of the Despotate of Morea in the 14th and 15th centuries. It became a major center of art, learning, and political power—essentially a living Byzantine city featuring palaces, mansions, and churches adorned with vibrant frescoes. Even after Constantinople fell, Mystras remained as one of the last Byzantine strongholds until surrendering to the Ottomans in 1460. Eventually abandoned in 1832, the site left behind a remarkably preserved medieval ghost town that earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 1989. Visitors today can explore the imposing hilltop castle built by the Franks in 1249, which offers commanding views of the Spartan plain below. The site contains numerous Byzantine churches and monasteries with well-preserved frescoes, including the ornate Agios Dimitrios Cathedral where the last Byzantine emperor was crowned. The Pantanassa Monastery, still home to a few nuns, showcases magnificent multi-colored frescoes and icons. Mystras provides an unparalleled glimpse into the twilight years of Byzantium, with its stone paths connecting multiple terraces in a hauntingly beautiful setting.
Unknown City, Unknown Country
Monemvasia is a breathtaking medieval castle town unlike any other in Greece, perched on a massive rock island connected to the southeastern Peloponnese by a single narrow causeway. Its name literally means "single passage," reflecting its unique accessibility. From the mainland, Monemvasia appears as merely an enormous cliff rising from the sea; only after crossing the causeway do the hidden treasures of this rocky fortress reveal themselves. Behind formidable fortifications lie winding cobbled lanes, beautifully preserved stone mansions, and Byzantine church domes - an entire medieval town seemingly frozen in time. Founded in the 6th century and continuously inhabited for over 14 centuries, Monemvasia once housed 40,000 residents and thrived as a vital Byzantine trading center. Today, while only a few dozen permanent residents remain within the old walls, the town's historic charm has been meticulously preserved, earning it recognition as one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited fortified settlements. Visitors can wander through labyrinthine alleys flanked by ruined stone archways and Byzantine churches, including the stunning cliff-top Agia Sophia. The Upper Town, now mostly in ruins, offers sweeping views of the lower settlement and the endless Aegean. In the Lower Town, medieval buildings have been thoughtfully converted into boutique guesthouses and tavernas, while preserving the quiet, car-free atmosphere of this remarkable living museum.
Unknown City, Unknown Country
Perched dramatically on a 216-meter hill overlooking Nafplio, Palamidi Fortress stands as one of Greece's finest examples of Venetian military architecture. Built between 1711-1714 during Venice's final occupation of the region, this imposing stone citadel features eight strategically interconnected bastions that once represented the cutting edge of defensive design. The fortress played a pivotal role in Greece's War of Independence when Greek revolutionaries captured it in 1822 after a daring nighttime assault, turning the tide in their favor. Later, it gained additional notoriety as the prison that held the revolutionary hero Theodoros Kolokotronis in 1833. Today, visitors can ascend the legendary 999 steps zigzagging up the hillside (local lore claims the thousandth was broken by Kolokotronis's horse) or drive up a back road to explore the well-preserved ramparts. From its battlements, panoramic views unfold across Nafplio's terracotta rooftops, the azure Argolic Gulf, and the surrounding mountains. Within the fortress, visitors can discover a small chapel dedicated to St. Andrew and spot the carved Lion of Venice above one gate—subtle reminders of Palamidi's Venetian origins. For the most enjoyable experience, visit during cooler morning hours or just before sunset when the golden light bathes the ancient stones.
Nissaki, Greece
Poised on a lush Corfiot hillside, Villa Likos offers front-row seats to the Ionian Sea's ever-changing blues. The architecture is a modern marvel in glass and stone, yet it blends into olive trees and bougainvillea as if it sprang organically from the landscape. The centerpiece? A 25-meter infinity pool that curves around an exposed rock, resembling a natural seaside grotto. Stone pathways lead down to a private sunbathing deck and ladder straight into crystal-clear waters—your own secret cove for morning swims. Inside the villa, coastal chic meets contemporary luxury: think airy open-plan living spaces, a gourmet kitchen, and a master suite that occupies an entire floor. A full staff (including a chef who crafts breakfast and dinner six days a week) ensures you hardly lift a finger. At dusk, as lights twinkle across the bay from distant villages, Villa Likos embodies the quiet glamour of Corfu's exclusive northeast enclave.
Gastouri, Greece
Achilleion Palace stands as a testament to an empress's love affair with Greece. Commissioned by the tragic Empress Sisi, who sought solace on Corfu's shores, the palace is a neoclassical marvel dedicated to Achilles, her favorite Greek hero. Its grand colonnaded façade and lush gardens filled with statues (a dying Achilles among them) exude a wistful beauty—Sisi's romantic spirit seems to linger in the cypress-scented air. Inside, lavish frescoes and gilded furniture evoke the Austro-Hungarian court she left behind, yet Greek motifs celebrate the mythology she adored. Today, Achilleion welcomes visitors as a museum, allowing a glimpse into Sisi's world of marble and myth. Strolling through its terraced gardens, with sweeping views of Corfu town and the Ionian Sea, one feels the blend of melancholy and magnificence that makes this villa palace so famous. It's both a historic landmark and a dreamy escape—much as it was in Sisi's time, and ever enchanting to those who wander its halls.
Lahos, Greece
Surrounded by silvery olive groves and wildflowers on the sleepy island of Ithaca, Villa Kalos is where time slows down. The villa is a lovingly restored stone farmhouse, exuding a weathered patina that whispers of island history. Inside, four airy open-plan bedrooms blend farmhouse charm with modern comfort—think wrought-iron beds, billowy white linens, and freestanding tubs with views of the countryside. The heart of the property is its panoramic terrace, where an infinity-edge pool stretches toward a horizon of rolling hills and deep blue sea. Each evening, the sky over Ithaca puts on a show just for you, turning the pool into a mirror of the sunset's fiery colors. Villa Kalos is intentionally low-key: days are spent reading under the shade of an olive tree, wandering through nearby vineyards, or taking a short drive to discover hidden coves. It's luxury tailored for tranquility seekers—an authentic Greek island life experience wrapped in comfort and style.
Unknown City, Unknown Country
Experience Renaissance splendor at the iconic Villa d'Este, a 16th-century architectural masterpiece overlooking Lake Como. The exquisite Lake Como Suite offers unparalleled views of the shimmering waters and surrounding mountains. This former royal residence features meticulously manicured Renaissance gardens, renowned for their terraces, fountains, and nymphaeums. Guests enjoy access to a floating pool on the lake, gourmet dining options, and elegant common spaces filled with antiques and art treasures.
Unknown City, Unknown Country
Step into Irish history at the magnificent 12th-century Kilkea Castle, one of Ireland's oldest continuously inhabited castles. The Royal Suite offers breathtaking views over the castle's own golf course and 180 acres of woodland. Located in County Kildare, just one hour from Dublin, this castle is steeped in legends of the "Wizard Earl" and features luxury amenities including fine dining restaurants, a spa, and opportunities for falconry and equestrian activities.
Unknown City, Unknown Country
Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Dordogne River, Château de la Treyne offers an extraordinary blend of medieval magnificence and contemporary luxury. Dating from the 14th-17th centuries, this exquisite château boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, elegantly furnished rooms, and hundreds of acres of pristine grounds. Nearby, explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Lascaux and Rocamadour.
Unknown City, Unknown Country
Experience medieval history at the mysterious Czocha Castle in Lower Silesia, Poland. The Knight's Room offers an authentic medieval ambiance with period furnishings, tapestries, and access to the castle's extensive grounds. Located just 6km from the Czech border, this 13th-century fortress offers stunning views of surrounding forests and rivers. The castle includes a restaurant serving traditional Polish cuisine, spa facilities, and guided tours of its historical halls and secret passages.
Himeji, Japan
Known as "White Heron Castle" due to its elegant white exterior and supposed resemblance to a bird taking flight, Himeji Castle is widely considered Japan's most spectacular castle. The complex consists of 83 buildings with advanced defensive systems from the feudal period.
Hillerød, Denmark
Known as the largest Renaissance castle in Scandinavia, Frederiksborg Castle stands on three small islands in the middle of Castle Lake. The magnificent structure features elaborate sandstone ornaments, copper roofs, and a stunning Renaissance garden.