Mytilene Castle to Undergo Major €15 Million Restoration

Mytilene Castle, Lesvos. Photo source: Antiquities Ephorate of Lesvos

The Castle of Mytilene, one of the most significant historical monuments on the island of Lesvos in the Eastern Aegean, will undergo an ambitious restoration project to ensure its long-term preservation and enhance its appeal, as announced by the Greek Culture Ministry.

The project, funded with over 15 million euros, will involve collaboration with the Antiquities Ephorate of Lesvos to restore the castle walls, fortification enclosure, and various individual monuments, aiming to preserve and protect the site.

“We are committed to protecting and enhancing the historical and archaeological value of the monument, along with its structural and architectural integrity,” said Culture Minister Lina Mendoni.

The primary aim of the project is to ensure the accessibility of the castle and strengthen its connection with the historic city center, transforming it into a functional urban space for culture and recreation.

Interventions at the North and West Walls of the Lower Castle

The donjon of the castle. Photo source: Culture Ministry

The Lower Castle extends from the Middle Castle down to the sea, with its northern and western walls forming part of the sea wall fortification.

Over the centuries, significant portions of the walls were damaged or even collapsed, and large sections of the castle were dismantled to provide building materials for the construction of refugee settlements.

Therefore, the restoration works will prioritize preserving all original materials.

The interventions will include reinforcing the upper section’s structure, installing a drainage system, completing the arches in the gun ports, constructing new parapets on the western wall, and finishing the cobbled walkway.

Great Enclosure of the Upper Castle

The Ottoman pyrite warehouse. Photo source: Culture Ministry

As reported by the authorities, the Great Enclosure of the Upper Castle is currently facing structural challenges, as well as issues related to operational and visitor safety.

Due to its poor condition, the complex is closed to visitors, and access to its various areas is restricted. The planned restoration work will involve interventions in the masonry, corridors, and openings of the donjon, towers, and enclosure.

The Castle of Mytilene spans 9,100 acres and is situated in the northeastern part of the modern city, atop a peninsula. Its construction occurred gradually over various historical periods, beginning in the Byzantine era and continuing with additions during the Genoese rule and Ottoman conquest.