Koita: Towers, Lanes and Churches

Koita’s architectural character can be seen on several scales. Stone reliefs adorn the home of the well-known stonemason Kalapothos Lymperis; distinctive towers stand in the old square of Foulia, and cobbled lanes shape the village. Churches dating from the 12th century add to its architectural history. These features range from a single house to the history of the settlement: historically, Koita was considered one of the largest and most important settlements in Inner Mani.

A settlement of towers and neighbourhoods

The local dialect refers to Koita as “πολυπυργού”; the term points to the many towers in its neighbourhoods. Koita’s six main neighbourhoods each comprised 15 to 50 buildings. Houses, defensive towers and churches were arranged in groups. The towers can therefore be viewed not only as individual structures but also as part of the settlement’s layout. Distinctive towers also stand in the old square of Foulia.

Towers with dates of their own

Visitors can see 11 towers and all the tower houses in Koita. In the past, Koita had 21 defensive towers and 28 tower houses. The historical totals therefore differ from the structures visitors can see today. Individual towers can be dated more precisely: Voudiklaris’s defensive tower dates from 1763. The Lianos tower complex was built with various additions between 1800 and 1850. The six-storey Lazarongonas Tower dates from 1850.

Churches in the village and nearby

The Church of Saints Sergios and Bakchos in Koita is a simple four-column church dating from the 12th century. A short distance from Koita stands the frescoed Church of Saints Sergios and Bakchos, also dating from the 12th century and also known as “Turloti”. Their locations distinguish the two landmarks: one church is in Koita itself, while Turloti is a short distance away. The village church is characterised by its simple four-column form, while frescoes and the name Turloti are features of the nearby church.

Lanes and getting your bearings

Visitors can stroll along Koita’s cobbled lanes. Koita is 4 km from Yerolimín and 45 km from Gythio. Together with the nearby Turloti church, these places provide a sense of location without replacing Koita’s distinct architectural history.

Koita as a base for your stay

If you are looking for a holiday rental in Koita, you can choose your location based on what interests you most: Koita itself offers a wealth of history, from its neighbourhoods and defensive towers to its churches and lanes; Turloti is a short distance away. The distances to Yerolimín and Gythio add further points of reference. You can consider whether you want your stay to focus mainly on Koita’s architectural history or also include the nearby church and the distances to the two towns.

Discover more destinations: Pyrgos Dirou, Xifias, Kiparissos, Kotronas, Mistrás, Neapoli Vion, Sykia, Agios Kiprianos

For the broader travel overview: Laconia.