According to researchers, the Castle of Kyparissia was built by Frankish people on the site of a previous Byzantine fortress.
The Byzantines had built four bulwarks at the four corners of the castle, but only one is preserved today, which is named Ioustinianos, after the great Byzantine emperor. The Franks attacked the Castle in the 13th century and kept it under their control for two centuries. As it is built on a hill overlooking the whole town and bay of Kyparissia, this Castle was a watch outpost for enemies and pirates.
In 1460, the Castle of Kyparissia was conquered by the Turks, until the 1820s, when the Greek War of Independence set the town free. However, due to the battles that have occurred, the Castle has been greatly damaged. Most of the bulwarks, the walls, the cisterns, and the storehouses have been destroyed either by attacks or from the gradual decay.
In 1970, there was an effort by the Greek government to restore the Castle. A small open-air theatre was built, which now hosts occasionally a number of cultural events, such as musical concerts, poetry nights and ancient tragedies. In summer, there is a refreshment stand where you can enjoy a cool drink while you see the great view of the surrounding area.
References:Kakesbeck is one of the largest medieval fortifications in Münsterland and the oldest castle in Lüdinghausen. The imposingly grown complex originated in 1120 as a motte, a small hilltop tower castle. After numerous changes of ownership, the castle was extended onto two islands, but it was not until the 14th century that it underwent significant alterations and extensions under the von Oer family. The estate experienced its heyday in the middle of the 18th century, when it covered an area of almost one square kilometre and consisted of five further outer castles in addition to the core castle, which were secured by ramparts and moats.
The well-maintained condition of the castle today is thanks to the late Wilfried Grewing, the former lord of the castle. The foundation named after him has been particularly committed to preserving the property since 2020.