The Tower of Palia Monemvasia is a historic stone tower on a cape north of the fortress-city of Monemvasia, near the small settlement of Palia Monemvasia. Its coastal setting and uncertain history make it a distinct landmark to look for when exploring the area.
- Location: A cape north of Monemvasia, in Laconia, Greece
- Nearby settlement: Palia Monemvasia, on the east coast of Laconia
- Access: Greek Castles describes access as free
Where is the Tower of Palia Monemvasia?
The Tower of Palia Monemvasia stands on the first cape north of the fortress-city, beside the small village of Palia Monemvasia. The village lies on the east coast of Laconia in a bay formed by that headland; the tower is in the Municipality of Monemvasia, in the Peloponnese.
The tower is described as a large square structure built on rocks. It is mapped near the church of Agia Varvara and the hamlet of Kremmydi.
Palia Monemvasia is about 10 to 12 km from the fortress town, so the tower and village are outside the historic centre rather than within it. For a broader schedule, the one-day Monemvasia itinerary covers a day in the area.
How do you get to the Tower of Palia Monemvasia?
The tower’s mapped coordinates are 36.73168° N, 23.04457° E. Use those coordinates to identify the cape and nearby settlement when planning your route. The Monemvasia city centre route can help you plan time in the historic centre separately. Check the official site before you go, as access and conditions can change.
What is known about the tower’s history and condition?
The tower’s construction date is uncertain. One reference suggests it may date to the 16th or 17th century, while another places it before or during the Second Venetian rule, between 1690 and 1715. It may have formed part of Monemvasia’s defensive system, though that remains an assumption rather than a confirmed purpose.
References describe the tower as surviving today, but one characterizes its condition as “Rather Poor.” Treat it as a historic structure viewed in its setting, not as a restored monument with confirmed visitor facilities. Sources also differ on its elevation, giving figures of approximately 35 metres and 42 metres.
What can you pair with a visit to the tower?
The tower’s position north of the fortress town makes Palia Monemvasia a separate stop from time in the historic centre. You can plan the town and cape as distinct parts of an outing.
The tower is about 20 minutes by car from The Flower Of Monemvasia Hotel, which can make it a practical stop alongside time in town.
FAQs
Is access to the Tower of Palia Monemvasia free?
Access to the tower is described as free.
Is the tower inside Monemvasia’s fortress town?
No. It stands on a cape north of the fortress-city, near Palia Monemvasia.
When was the tower built?
Its construction date is uncertain, with references suggesting dates from the 16th or 17th century through the Second Venetian rule, 1690–1715.