Castle of Melivoia (Velika)

The Castle of Melivoia, also known as the Castle of Velika, uniquely combines history, archaeology, and natural beauty, offering visitors a fascinating journey from antiquity to the Byzantine era. Its strategic location allowed control over the coastal passage of Mount Kissavos and the fertile plain stretching to the south, while the views of the Aegean Sea from its walls are truly spectacular.

The castle was built upon the ruins of ancient Melivoia, the historic city of the Magnetes, which was already renowned in Homeric times and for its participation in the Trojan War. The fortifications that survive today include elements from three distinct periods—the Hellenistic, Early Christian, and Middle Byzantine eras—revealing the site's long and remarkable history.

From Antiquity to Byzantium

The ancient city was destroyed by the Romans in 168 BC but experienced a significant revival during the 6th century AD, under the reign of Emperor Justinian. Frequent pirate raids, however, led to its gradual abandonment, as its inhabitants sought safer locations either higher up on the slopes of Mount Kissavos or on the nearby Mavrovouni mountain, home to the other major Byzantine centre of the region, the Castle of Skiti.

The fortified area covers approximately 21 stremmas (about 2.1 hectares). The walls are around two metres thick, and in several places they survive to a height of up to three metres. On the southern and eastern sides, gates, towers, and sections of stairways can still be identified, providing valuable insights into the development of Byzantine military architecture. Archaeological excavations have brought to light a well-organised 6th-century AD settlement, featuring houses, storage facilities, olive oil and wine production installations, as well as an impressive three-aisled Early Christian basilica.

For travellers exploring the coastline of the Municipality of Agia, a visit to the castle offers the opportunity to discover an important chapter in the history of Mount Kissavos, just a short walk from Velika Beach and the endless blue waters of the Aegean Sea.