Paleochora #1275

Description

Built in the 12th century by settlers from Monemvasia on the northeastern side of the island, this small town is perched above a steep cliff.

It stands at the top of a mountain, facing the impressive Kaki Lagkadi Gorge, where two ravines meet, at an elevation of approximately 100 meters above sea level.

Palaiochora is fortified and positioned lower than the surrounding hills, making it invisible from the sea and thereby protected from frequent pirate raids.

Despite its natural defenses and strong fortifications, the notorious Turkish pirate Hayreddin Barbarossa managed to locate it in 1537. He destroyed the entire town and sold its inhabitants into slavery. Since then, the place has been considered cursed and was never inhabited again.