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Kastanitsa
Nestled on the eastern slopes of Mount Parnon, at an altitude of 840 meters, Kastanitsa is a village that carries centuries of history and tradition. It is considered the oldest Tsakonian village, with written records dating back to 1293 in a golden bull decree of the Byzantine Emperor Andronikos II Palaiologos. However, its origins go even further, with evidence suggesting that its first settlers were Laconians who took refuge in the mountains as early as the Roman and early Byzantine periods.
A Village Steeped in History
Kastanitsa’s strategic location made it an important settlement throughout history. It was formed by the merging of two smaller settlements, Pentalona and Bezeniko, before the Frankish rule in 1204. A Byzantine tower, now known as Kapsampeli Castle, was built at the top of the hill to oversee the important passage between Argolis and Laconia. The village has gone by several names in historical records, including Konstantza and Kastanitza, before settling on the modern name, which is derived from the rich chestnut forests that surround it.
Throughout the centuries, Kastanitsa played a significant role in Greek history, particularly during the Greek War of Independence in 1821. Many of its residents fought as revolutionaries, and the village even managed to resist the destructive forces of Ibrahim Pasha in 1826.
While Kastanitsa was not burned, the nearby Monastery of Kontolinas and the village of Prastos were tragically burned.
The People and Their Way of Life
Today, Kastanitsa has a small but resilient population. According to the 2021 census, the village has 204 residents, though the number of year-round inhabitants is significantly lower, estimated at around 50. Many homes in Kastanitsa are used as vacation residences, leading to a population surge during the summer months and special events like the Chestnut Festival.
For centuries, the people of Kastanitsa have lived in harmony with nature. Traditionally, the economy was based on chestnut cultivation, livestock and farming, The village is known for its high-quality chestnuts, which were once a major export product.
Unique Architecture: Stone and Slate Beauty
One of the most striking features of Kastanitsa is its traditional architecture. The village is filled with stone-built houses. A defining element of Kastanitsa’s homes is their slate roofs, made from locally sourced stone. These durable and weather-resistant roofs not only protect the houses from harsh mountain weather but also add to the village’s distinct character. The combination of whitewashed stone walls, wooden balconies, and grey slate roofs creates a picturesque and timeless setting that feels like a step back in history.
The Chestnut Festival: A Celebration of Tradition
One of the most special occasions in Kastanitsa is the annual Chestnut Festival, which takes place every October. This beloved event brings together locals and visitors from all over Greece to celebrate the village’s rich chestnut heritage. The festival features traditional music, dancing, and, of course, delicious local delicacies made from chestnuts—such as roasted chestnuts, chestnut pies, and chestnut-based sweets. It is a time of joy, community, and appreciation for the land that has sustained generations of Kastanitsa’s people.
Preserving the Tsakonian Heritage
Despite the fact that the Tsakonian language is not used very often nowadays, the older residents of the village still speak it, keeping this rare linguistic treasure alive.
Beyond the language, visitors can experience Tsakonian culture through its food and traditional dances. The village offers authentic Tsakonian cuisine, featuring local specialties like Tsakonian eggplant dishes, stews, and homemade pies. Traditional Tsakonian folk dances are often performed at festivals and celebrations, accompanied by live music that reflects the unique heritage of
Our recommendation
We highly recommend a visit to Kastanitsa for its unique blend of history, nature, and culture. Be sure to explore the Kapsampeli Tower, which offers stunning views of the surrounding region. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Mugli Turla summit hike is a must—an 18 km circular trail starting from the nearby village of Sitena, leading to the summit and back, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Parnon Mountains. After a day of exploration, we suggest staying at “A Tsella Mi” Airbnb, a cozy and welcoming accommodation that provides a peaceful and authentic village experience.