The authentic village of Pyrgos Kallistis has approx. 1000 inhabitants and is the highest village of the island, located 10 km northeast of Fira.
History
The tower was one of the five castles of the island and was the capital of Santorini until 1800. During the Turkish rule in the 18th century, Abbot Paisios of the Prophet Elias monastery founded the first school in Santorini. Konstantinos Mourouzis had a significant contribution to the operation of the school. Today we see the ruins of the first school on the old road to the Prophet Elias Monastery. The church of the Holy Apostles (1803) was the old classroom of the school and around the church you can see the ruins of the halls of residence for teachers and students.
The castle was very badly damaged by the earthquake of 1956, but most of the damage was done by the army who demolished parts and houses that caused irreparable damage.
The west side of the Castle
The entrance to the castle was made from a single point, the Castle Gate. Above was an opening, from which they poured hot oil on attackers who tried to break down the door. This structure, which currently does not exist, is called Fonissa. Below the castle there was a system of galleries that served to protect and evacuate the inhabitants in times of need. Outside the castle and around, we have the newest town, formerly called Xeporto.
As in all the other castles of the island, outside the castle, near the entrance, is the church of Ag. Theodosia Locals believed that Saint Theodosia (whose name means something given for the god) should always be built by each castle to protect its people.
Theotokaki Church
Inside the castle of Pyrgos in the western part, we find the Church of Theotokaki, one of the oldest churches in Santorini, believed to have been built in the 10th century. Its current form is the result of many additions that have been made over time. Inside the church there are precious icons. However, the main icon of the Virgin Mary was stolen in 1983.
Equally important is the church of Panagia, located at the highest point of Kasteli. It was built in the years 1660.
