Byzantine Castles of Avantas and Potamos
12.57 km from the center
About
The ruins of two Byzantine castles in the villages of Avantas and Potamos, inland from Alexandroupoli - a reminder of the area's role as a military stronghold on the border with Constantinople during the Byzantine period. The surrounding gorges are today an ideal spot for hiking and eco-tourism.
The History
In Byzantine times the area played a leading role, as it was the immediate neighbourhood of Constantinople, and within its borders important towns flourished, protected by powerful military installations (the castles of Potamos and Avantas).
The two castles are close to one another, which is unusual. Both controlled an important passage into the interior of Thrace and Rhodope, as well as an alternative route to Constantinople that ran north of the Egnatia Odos. The fact that there are two strongholds so close together shows how strategic the passage was - it needed extra fortification.
- Avantas Castle (Boz-Tepe): A hilltop castle, 14th century, 180m elevation, outside Alexandroupoli. Also known as Avantas Castle or Boz-Tepe Castle.
- Potamos Castle: Close to Avantas, considered quite a bit older than Avantas Castle. It's near the settlement of the same name.
Another theory says the castles belonged to rival local lords, which would explain the competitive dynamic of two castles side by side.
What You'll See Today
Ruins, walls, towers, views over the hinterland. Below the castles, at the end of a beautiful route towards Avantas, hidden inside a cave and carved into the rock, stands the Holy Church of Agioi Theodoroi - a must.
The gorges around Avantas are a cool, green spot, ideal for hiking, chosen also by people from Alexandroupoli itself.
Practical Info
- Address: Avantas / Potamos, Alexandroupoli 68100
- Access: By car up to Avantas, then a path/hike. Proper trainers needed.
- Best season: Autumn-Spring (summer brings a lot of heat and snakes)
Photos
Useful Information
- Duration
- 30-45 λεπτά
Weather in Alexandroupoli
LiveFrom April to June and from September to October you get warm days, calm sea, and fewer crowds. July and August are hot and busy along the seafront, while winters stay mild but rainy.
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