ΔΗΜΟΤΙΚΟ ΣΧΟΛΕΙΟ ΑΡΓΟΥΣ ΚΑΛΥΜΝΟΥ

Pera Castle or Castle of Chrisocheria
Midway between Chora and Pothia you will find the Pera Castle or Castle of Chrisocheria, which is one of the most famous sights in the island. Situated at a strategic point, on the top of a natural hill, this castle helped Kalymnians to easily monitor Chora and Pothia.

The castle was constructed during the Knights' dominion. In fact, the residents were forced to build a new castle which would be used as a residence for the governor of Kalymnos, Kos, Leros and Nisyros islands, in order to protect themselves from the increasing pirate raids.

Inside the castle, its few buildings are maintened in good condition: a mineral and built food store, and two churches, the newest one of St. George and the oldest one of Virgin Mary.

The castle was finally abandoned in the late 15th century. Due to its small size, the Kalymnians were not fully protected against the incessant attacks of the Turks. Moreover, the Great Castle in Chora, which was delivered in 1495, covered these needs rendering thus useless the Castle of Chrisocheria.

Near the castle, you can also see the three stonebuilt windmills, which are the "trademark" of Kalymnos. As they are built on a hill, the windmills are visible from the port of Pothia.