Karytaina

This charming little village is located in the upper course of the Alfeios River, spread across a steep hillside. At first glance, you’ll be impressed by its unique location. Along its streets, you’ll come across impressive two- and three-story stone buildings. The village’s architecture, with its cobbled pathways, has remained intact, as Karytaina has been designated a preserved traditional settlement.

You'll find many old churches here, but the main attraction is undoubtedly the Frankish castle that dominates the southern edge of the village. It is considered one of the most beautiful castles in the Peloponnese. Its construction during the Frankish rule reflects the period of prosperity the village experienced at the time. During the Greek War of Independence, the Castle of Karytaina served as the headquarters and stronghold of Theodoros Kolokotronis, who even built a church within its walls.

Just outside the village, at the junction with the road to Megalopoli, it’s well worth visiting the five-arched stone bridge over the Alfeios River, built by the Franks in 1440—still intact and impressive to this day.