Kefalas Castle (Lefas Castle)

Koskina Castle (also known as the Castle of Nikaria or Mesaria Castle) rises above the village of Kossoikia, in the area of Evdilos, and was the strongest fortification of the Byzantine city of Doliche. It was built in the 10th century by the Byzantines to control the hinterland and the sea routes of Ikaria. For centuries it was impregnable and played a decisive role in the island’s defense. It finally fell to the Genoese between 1362 and 1481, after treachery, despite the staunch resistance of the inhabitants—even women fought. Today, sections of the wall survive, and inside stands the Church of St. George Dorganas, a single‑aisled barrel‑vaulted basilica, with columns from ancient buildings incorporated. The castle’s history has passed into folk memory through legends and medieval folk songs; the best known is the “riva of the Castle of Nikaria,” narrating the capture of Ikaria’s castles by the Genoese.