Palio Pyli is a picturesque deserted hilltop village and a castle on the Greek island of Kos. The ruins are located on the northern slope of the islands mountain range. From the castle and parts of the village you have beautiful views of the surrounding area with the towns of Marmari, Tigaki, the Alikes Salt Lakes and the sea. The castle was presumably built in the 11th century.
The village below the castle was most likely founded in the 15th century. It was secluded, hidden from view of the sea behind the castle hill and therefore well protected from pirate attacks. Because of a cholera epidemic the castle and village were abandoned in 1830. Two churches built in the 11th century and a chapel have survived an are still maintained while the surrounding houses are mostly in ruins. Today goats graze in and between the ruins of the houses. On a hill above the old village, the wonderful Taverna Oria invites you to stop and refresh yourself.
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Directions
Take the island's main road to Amaniou and then follow the signs to Palio Pyli. On the way is Taverna Old Pyli, a restaurant with good food, fresh local fish and a wonderful view from the terrace over the island, ideal for a stop on the way to Palio Pyli.