The Castle of Fairytales

Discover the Magical World of The Castle of Fairytales in Agrilos

Driving along the Western coast of Greece, from Olympia towards Pylos, you can take a small detour for a chance to enter a mythical realm where stories of knights, maidens, and winged dragons are very much alive and intertwined with Ancient Greek mythology. Welcome to the enchanting Fairytale Castle of Agrilos.

A Dream Turned Reality

The Fairytale Castle of Agrilos was built in the 1960s by a U.S.-born doctor of Greek descent, Harry Fournier. After a successful career as a surgeon in Chicago, Fournier returned to his ancestral lands in Filiatra, where he wished to leave his mark as a benefactor of the city. He created a cultural center and several landmarks, including the Fairytale Castle.

A Medieval Marvel

As you approach the castle, you'll be greeted by a large gatehouse with a drawbridge, setting the stage for the magical experience that awaits you. The castle's conical towers, painted in vibrant red, evoke images of a bygone era. Inside, a series of corridors connect halls adorned with displays of medieval lore, including coats of arms, halberds, swords, and more.

Immersive Medieval Art

The walls of the Fairytale Castle are adorned with paintings and murals, designed to mimic the style of medieval tapestries. These intricate artworks depict popular medieval stories such as Tristan and Isolde, Ivanhoe, and the legendary King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. Each painting transports visitors to a world of chivalry and adventure.

Panoramic Views and Hidden Secrets

Climbing to the top of the castle rewards visitors with a breathtaking view of the sea and surrounding countryside. Here, you'll also find replicas of medieval war weapons, including a catapult, a ballista, and a medieval cannon carriage. In the courtyard, Fournier erected three colossal statues: Athena, the Goddess of Wisdom, Poseidon, the God of the Sea, and a giant sitting horse. Rumor has it that this horse monument holds a secret library within its hollow structure.

A State of Deterioration

Sadly, the Fairytale Castle of Agrilos is currently abandoned and in a state of deterioration. However, visitors can still appreciate the exterior of the building and marvel at its unique architectural features. Two commemorative plaques, one attributed to Harry Fournier himself, serve as a reminder of the castle's historical significance.

How to Visit

To reach the Fairytale Castle, drive towards Filiatra and look for the sign for Agrili, approximately 10km from Kyparissia. Turn right and follow a short dust and gravel road marked with a pillar bearing an amphora. Ample free parking is available, and while the castle cannot be entered, visitors can freely explore the exterior.

A Fairytale Experience Awaits

The Castle of Fairytales in Agrilos offers a unique and whimsical experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in the world of medieval legends. From its impressive architecture to its captivating artwork, this magical landmark is sure to transport you to a bygone era. Plan your visit and let the Fairytale Castle of Agrilos weave its enchanting spell on you.