The Castle of Cuppa () is a medieval fortress in the centre of the Greek island of Euboea.

Location

Cuppa is located on Mount Mavrovouni, southwest of the village of Vrysi.

Castle of Cuppa

History

The castle, named after nearby Avlonari as , is first mentioned in the 13th century, in the battles between Byzantines and the Lombard lords of Euboea. It was captured in 1269 by the Byzantine commander Licario, recovered by the Lombards three years later, and may have been recaptured by the Byzantines in 1276.

Castle of Cuppa

In the 15th century, it was the residence of the two local Venetian captains of the district of Avlonari (); later one of the two resided in the nearby Potiri Castle. The castle was conquered in 1470 by the Ottoman Empire, during which time reportedly 3,000 local Christians were killed.

Castle of Cuppa

Remains

A large part of the fortifications, including the castle keep, survived until the 19th century but have since disappeared, leaving only remains of a wall incorporating ancient spolia. Nearby is a hagiasma in a cave, still being used as a chapel, with traces of ancient and medieval structures.

References

Castles in Greece

Medieval sites in Central Greece

Buildings and structures in Euboea

Medieval Euboea