Trikala Old Town & Fortress
Τρίκαλα
An ancient Thessalian town about 22 km from Meteora, where a riverside café street, an Ottoman mosque and a Byzantine castle make an easy half-day trip.
Trikala is the capital of the Trikala regional unit, and the Lithaios River flows through the city. Cafés line both banks, and Trikala was one of the first cities in Greece to introduce public bicycles. The old Varousi district keeps its stone-paved lanes and Ottoman-era houses. On the hill to the north stands a Byzantine castle founded in the 6th century AD. Its bell tower and walled gardens overlook the whole city and are open free of charge. Nearby, the Kursun Mosque, a 16th-century building designed by Sinan, is worth a visit. From Kalambaka, a train or bus takes about 20 to 30 minutes, making Trikala a good choice on days when the monasteries are closed or when it rains.
Opening hours
Old town open all day; castle approx. 08:00-22:00
Nearby sights
- Mill of Elves
- Theopetra Cave
- Porta Panagia Church
- Old Bridge of Pyli (Agios Vissarion Bridge)
- Natural History Museum of Meteora & Mushroom Museum
- Monastery of St. Stephen
- Monastery of the Holy Trinity
- Kalambaka