Photos

Full-size image (2000 x 850): Zarnata Castle

Σταυροπήγιο (Βαρούσι), Δυτική Μάνη, Μεσσηνία.
Stavropigio (Varousi), West Mani.
Messenia, Greece.

The castle of Zarnata, also known as the Castle of Koumoundourakis, was built in the middle of the 17th century. It is one of the four big castles of Mani. The exterior fortification was built on the wall of a pre-historic citadel, probably of Enopi. Traces of a polygonal wall made of large hewn stones on the fitting points still exist nowadays.

Mani is one of the foremost traditional regions in Greece and possesses a profuse historical and cultural heritage. Mani lies to the southern part of Peloponnesus, within the administrative authority of Laconia and Messenia. It is a land of stone towers and beautiful beaches. Mani is home of the Maniots (Maniátes in Greek). The Maniots hold themselves to be the direct descendants of the Spartans and through the Spartans the Dorians. The towers of Mani are military hallmarks of a glorious era. The first fortification towers appear in the 13th century and they are an expression of the fighting spirit of the region.

More images at: Kevrekidis Photography

© 2012 Jordan Kevrekidis