Kastellorizo: A Place of Culture, Nature, and Sustainability

Kastellorizo, also known as Megisti, is a small but beautiful island in the eastern Aegean, just 2 km from the Turkish coast. Despite its limited permanent population of around 584 residents, the island is now coming into the spotlight for sustainable development.

In 2023, an investment was approved for the green upgrade of Kastellorizo under the “Green Energy for EU Islands” framework. The program includes renewable energy installations, energy-saving and storage projects, water and waste management and the introduction of sustainable mobility such as electric vehicles, all integrated into a circular economy model.

At the same time, Kastellorizo offers unique ecotourism features. The island’s most famous attraction is the magical Blue Cave (also called Fokiali), an impressive sea cave with luminous blue waters, accessible only by boat under calm conditions, especially in the morning when the light creates the most magical effect.

Climbing the 401 steps to the Monastery of Saint George rewards visitors with breathtaking views not only of the sea but also of the island’s beautiful countryside. The Folklore Museum, housed in a historic Ottoman Mosque, showcases the rich history of island life and the traditions of Kastellorizo.

Trails connecting coastal paths with hidden beaches, historic monuments and quiet neighborhoods offer an informal yet complete ecotourism experience: hiking, swimming, exploration and cultural discovery at a truly slow pace.