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Kastelorizo (or Megisti) is the Aegean's easternmost island. It has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The Dorians who settled it later constructed fortified acropolises near the present day town and at Palaiokastro, where some ruins can still be seen. Kastelorizo has been named after its castle, Castello Rosso (or red castle), which was erected by the Knights of St. John., and stands above the quay of the port. It offers stunning views and a museum.

The island's only settlement is Kastelorizo, on the northeast coast. Its houses line the horseshoe-shaped port and climb up the foothills of the mountain behind it.

The gracious two-storey neoclassical houses with their brightly painted doors and windows, wooden balconies and tile roofs on the waterfront and the majestic domes of the churches testify to the island's former prosperity. Most of the houses were destroyed by World War II bombs, and many islanders emigrated.

Nowadays most houses are empty, but the town livens up in summer. The restaurants and tavernas of the town have excellent seafood.

Though there are no beaches as such on the island, you can sail to the particularly beautiful blue grotto of Parasta, or to the nearby islets of Ro (6 n.mi. west) and Strongili (5 n.mi. southeast). Both islands have wonderful beaches.

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