Imposing, mansion with the Frankish castle on the steep top of the hill – which dominates the center of the Peloponnese since the 13th century – and Alpheios rolling at its foot. The visitor will discover the hidden charm of Moria. Yes, because that’s where the Karytainain the heart of Moria, just 15 kilometers from Megalopolis, on the road to Elliniko and Andritsaina, on a route drowned in greenery.
In the years of the Frankish rule, it was the capital of the homonymous barony and its castle was built (1245) by Hugues de Bruyeres. Then it was called “Toledo, Greece» and was considered one of the most important points of the Peloponnese thanks to its strategic location.
Sights
The houses of Karytaina are all built in a traditional style, old mansions, upper and lower mahallas, stone fountains, shops with residences, rugs, Byzantine churches and chapels – with strong elements of the Frankish influence – and the house of Theodoros Kolokotronis.
It is also worth seeing the old bridge of Alpheios – on the main road is the new one and just below the old one – which is a pentax, a monument of Byzantine architecture that adorned the pentacle, and also to visit the four operating watermills of the area.
Nearby excursions
Visit the gorge of Alfeios and the Lousios river as well as the stone bridge of Atsicholo which is located on the road to the village of Atsicholo, near its confluence with the Alfeios. See the Sanctuary of Zeus with the famous Lykosyra on Lykaio Oros – you will go from Ano Kotylio, another picturesque village in the area – following the route to Andritsaina, Ancient Gortyna with the famous Baths of Asclepius and the Temple of Epicurean Apollo.
On the route to Andritsaina – after Kato Kotili turn right at the “Andriopoulos” sign, you will find the stone Cuckoo Bridge – in the narrowest rocky passage of Alpheio – which connected the provinces of Olympia, Gortynia and the surprise…..waterfalls!
If you love adventure o Lucius waiting for you for rafting and canyoning.
For your stay in Karytaina, you will find simple and well-kept rooms, with low prices.
