Another treasure that we visited while in the Mani Peninsula of Greece was the Old Town of Kardamyli. Also known as Pano Kardamyli or Upper Kardamyli. This was a real treat as we were able to freely roam through much of this abandoned area of once fortified Kardamyli. This included exploring the inside of a restored Mani tower house which gave us a glimpse of Mani’s past.
*NOTE* Not opened on Tuesdays.
Location
Old Town Kardamyli is located on the northeast part of Kardamyli, which is on the west side of the Mani Peninsula of Greece.
History
Kardamyli dates back to ancient times and is even mentioned in Homer’s Iliad, a testament to its historical significance. Originally ruled by Sparta, Kardamyli was connected to Sparta by an ancient highway known as the Royal Road. This road facilitated trade and military movement. Fast forward to the medieval era, and Old Town Kardamyli was part of the unique Greece Maniot culture, characterized by various clans who fought for control over the region while living in fortified towers throughout the peninsula. During the Greek War for Independence, Kardamyli was a hub for offering refuge to the brave Maniot fighters and also a base for organizing resistance efforts.
Getting There
After driving the main road through Kardamyli you will have to make a turn and eventually drive on a dirt road to get to the Old Town. It isn’t very long or difficult but it is a narrow road.
Old Town Kardamyli
The moment we parked, just outside of the fortified entrance of Old Town Kardamyli, I knew this was going to be another amazing place in Greece. It is one of those places I can’t wait to start exploring! The area we chose to explore is the Mourtzinos-Troupakis, named after the family clan that lived here. We found a small parking area near this building which is just outside the entrance.
The Entrance Gate
We of course entered through the Entrance Gate. Although not a grand entrance this arched stone entryway which is cut into the outer defensive wall adds to the historic atmosphere of the complex. Inside this fortification is a cluster of buildings, a three-story tower house, which belonged to a family named Mourtzinos, a cistern, cooking area, iron workshop, storerooms and olive press. There is also an 18th century church inside the complex. There were also gardens within the fortification while occupied.
The Church of Agios Spyridon
This was the family church, which dates back to the 18th century. Its use was for this particular clan and was not a public church. Although items inside the church date back further. The north wall of the church is part of the complex fortification wall, while the outer wall faces the courtyard in the complex. A fun fact I have read is the bell in the church tower comes from pirate loot! I’m sure there is a story behind this but as of yet I haven’t found it!
Mourtzinos Tower
Like other tower homes in the Mani, the Mourtzinos Tower did not only serve as a family home but also as a defensive fortress. The people of the Mani were always ready to defend their family or clan from any enemy, whether it was pirates, Ottomans, or rival clans.
This tower was constructed in the last part of the 17th century, a period marked by significant turmoil and conflict in the area. For safety, there is only one entrance, which originally was connected to a wooden drawbridge. The few and small windows were strategically designed not just to allow light and air in but also to provide vantage points for defenders; they were narrow enough to enable arrows or bullets to be shot out while making it difficult for an enemy to fire into the windows. The size of the tower was relative to the family’s status and wealth; the taller the tower, the wealthier the family. Each stone that the Mani towers were built with are like the Mani people, who are resilient and strong.
The first floor is where you would find the stables and also the storerooms.
While the upper stories were residential areas.
In addition, the tower houses a museum on Mani history and culture.
Olive Oil Press
This was a very self sufficient complex and it had its own oil press.
Vegetable Garden
To add to the self-sufficiency of the complex, a vegetable garden was within the outer fortified walls.
Conclusion
I really enjoyed visiting Old Town Kardamyli and believe it is definitely one of Greece’s historic gems. There was a small entry fee but it was very well worth it. We spent about 45 minutes here and would stop back again if in the area.
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Snorkeling the Sunken City of Epidaurus. August 2024
Ancient Epidaurus: Birthplace of Modern Medicne August 2024
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Ancient Nemea Greece-August 2026
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Wow! So interesting. 👌🌈🌺
It was! A great way to learn a bit about the history of the Mani tower houses.
So much beauty and history in one place Lori. Well worth a visit to see what life was like there. Happy Monday. Allan
It was really interesting. So much though was out into each building for protection and family living.
Makes on wonder how many structures in the U.S. will survive that many centuries.
That is a good question!
Such a lovely place!
It truly was!