Oia Castle | Santorini | The Medieval Throne to an Unrivaled View and a Majestic Sunset

Authors

George - The Shiny Greece Team (feat. ai)

Located on the northern tip of Santorini, Oia Castle (or Fort Londsa) is a ruined medieval castle that dates back to the 15th century, during which the Cyclades were ruled by the Franks. Originally built by the Venetians (former seat of the Argyri family, the castle was used as a lookout post (with a complete 360-degree view) to protect the island from pirates and invaders. Today, Oia Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions on Santorini and a great place to learn about the history of the island while enjoying stunning views of the Aegean Sea. This iconic landmark is the perfect blend of history and beauty, making it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Santorini. The ruins, the colors of the island and the sky, the warmth of the people enjoying the magical sunset all together, create a magnificent scenery.

Oia Castle Santorini | Photo by: Moonik, Oia in Santorini, Greece 003, CC BY-SA 3.0

Exploring Oia Castle

The castle is perched on a hill overlooking the Aegean Sea, and visitors can access it via a narrow staircase that winds its way up to the castle entrance. Once inside, visitors will be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding area, including the picturesque village of Oia, the iconic blue domes of the nearby churches, and the shimmering waters of the sea. One of the most popular spots in the castle is the lookout tower, which offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the island. Visitors can see for miles in all directions, and on clear days, they can even see neighboring islands such as Ios and Naxos. The tower is a great place to take photos, watch the sunset, or simply soak in the beauty of Santorini. The castle itself is a maze of narrow passageways, steep stairs, and hidden courtyards. It's easy to get lost in the winding streets, but that's part of the charm of Oia Castle. Visitors can explore at their leisure, discovering hidden gems around every corner. Some of the highlights of the castle include the old cannons that were used to defend the island, the remnants of the original walls and towers, and the stunning views from every vantage point.

Oia Castle Santorini | Photo by: iStock.com, Tao_Shen

Sunset at Oia Castle

One of the most popular times to visit Oia Castle is during sunset. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, the sky explodes into a riot of oranges, pinks, and purples, creating a stunning backdrop for the castle and the surrounding area. Visitors can watch the sunset from anywhere in the castle, but the most popular spot is the lookout tower, which provides an unobstructed view of the sun sinking into the sea. During sunset, the castle can get very crowded, so it's important to arrive early to secure a good spot. Visitors should also be aware that the stairs leading up to the castle can be steep and slippery, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Sunset at Oia Castle Santorini | Photo by: Klearchos Kapoutsis from Santorini, Greece, Waiting for the sunset (4731020161), CC BY 2.0

It is a Must

Oia Castle is a timeless treasure of Santorini, offering visitors a glimpse into the island's rich history while providing breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply want to soak in the beauty of Santorini, a visit to Oia Castle is a must. So the next time you're in Santorini, be sure to make your way up the narrow staircase to the castle entrance and discover the magic of Oia Castle for yourself.

How to get there | Go to Santorini Page