In the picturesque and bustling harbor of Naoussa in Paros, right where the fishing boats dock today, stands one of the island's most recognizable historical landmarks. The Castle of Naoussa (also known as the Kasteli) is a 15th-century Venetian fortification built by the Sommaripa family to protect the harbor from pirate raids. Today, this half-submerged fort stands as a charming witness to the era when Naoussa served as a strategic commercial and naval hub in the Aegean Sea.
Architecturally, the Kasteli was a circular watchtower-bastion connected to the town's defensive walls, equipped with the necessary infrastructure for mounting cannons. What makes it unique today is its striking location, as it is almost entirely embraced by the sea, accessible only by a narrow, stone breakwater. Despite the erosion caused by the waves and the passage of centuries, the bastion maintains its imposing presence, offering visitors a vivid glimpse into medieval Cycladic fortification arts.
Visiting the Castle of Naoussa is one of the most popular experiences on the island, especially during sunset. Walking along the narrow stone path that leads into the fort, visitors can feel the power of the sea while enjoying a panoramic view of the traditional village with its whitewashed houses. It is a monument that seamlessly binds history with the beauty of the Cycladic landscape, reminding everyone of the glorious and adventurous past of Paros.