The Chlemoutsi Castle

Originally called Château Clermont, travellers referred to this incredible structure as Castle Tornese and the Byzantines called it Chloumoutzi. Due to its strategic location, the imposing stronghold guarded the capital Andravida, the harbour of Glarentza and, of course, the palace of the House of the Villehardouin that was situated within its walls.

The castle was equipped with a double fortification. The central part of the castle, which stands at the hilltop, was a two-storey hexagonal structure and housed the princely palace. The halls were arranged around a central courtyard. The Throne Hall was on the upper storey, where the prince governed, received his notable guests, and organised banquets. The adjoining wings housed the private apartments of the royal family, the chapel, and the kitchens. When the Franks abandoned Peloponnese, the castle continued to be in use for many centuries, despite the fact that it had lost its former glory.

Today, the restored halls with their vaulted ceilings, cabinets, and large fireplaces is the venue for a unique exhibition entitled “The Era of the Knights—Crusaders in the Morea.” The approximately 500 objects on display travel to the world of the Crusaders, and uncover unknown aspects of the Medieval world.