Castle of Mithymna

The Castle of Mythimna stands in northern Lesvos and was founded in the Byzantine period on the ruins of the ancient fortification to counter raids by Arabs, Saracens, Russians, Venetians, Catalans and Franks. In 1373 it was rebuilt by Francesco I Gattilusio, and in 1462 it passed into Ottoman hands. Much of its present form (outworks, entrances, acropolis) dates to the Ottoman period, with more than one building phase. Perimeter defenses include ten tall towers and a battery. On the northeastern side lies the acropolis (keep), which also has loopholes on the inside. Many points on the walls bear embedded plaques with inscriptions or other emblems. It was used as a prison and a powder magazine.