The byzantine castle at Pythion

On the NE side of the settlement, just 2 km from the Greek-Turkish border is the Late Byzantine castle of Pythion or Empythion as it was called during the Byzantine period. It was built between 1330-1340 by Ioannis VI Kantakouzinos during the civil war with a view to claim the throne against the legal successor John III Palaiologos.

Two decades after its completion it fell into the hands of the Ottomans. The settlement that developed around the castle became known as Kouleli Burgaz. The castle is preserved in relatively good condition but only part of the original fortification project. Specifically, the inner courtyard is preserved, partially damaged in the part where the railway line passes. Initially, the fortress complex had an outer enclosure, which is distinguished between the houses of the modern settlement and protected the entire area of ​​the hill. To strengthen the fortress complex, towers were erected, which are preserved in good condition. The southern tower is the largest with a side 15m long.

Presumably, it must have functioned as the residence of the would-be emperor. It has three levels with four vaulted spaces on each floor. Of great architectural importance and a new element are the cantilevers that must have supported a balcony or a larger floor. The other tower is smaller with a side length of about 7.40 m and a surviving height of 20 m. It has four floors without stairs and the access to each floor is through the perimeter of the wall. 

Kastrologos