Kastoria Maps

Kastoria is a city in northwestern Greece, situated on a peninsula on the western shore of Lake Orestiada. The city has a population of approximately 16,000 and is located at an elevation of 650 meters. Kastoria's strategic position on the lake, almost completely surrounded by water, made it naturally defensible throughout history.

The city is renowned for its exceptional concentration of Byzantine and post-Byzantine churches, with over 70 religious buildings dating from the 9th to 19th centuries. Notable examples include the Church of Panagia Koumbelidiki, a 10th-century cruciform church with a distinctive dome, and the Church of Taxiarchis of the Metropolis, containing important 12th-century frescoes. The Church of Agios Stefanos dates to the 9th century, making it one of the oldest in the city.

The city has a long tradition of fur trading and processing, dating back to Byzantine times, which brought considerable wealth to the region. Restored Archontika (mansions) from the 17th to 19th centuries showcase the affluence of fur merchants. The Byzantine Museum of Kastoria houses an important collection of icons and religious artifacts. The Folklore Museum of Kastoria is housed in a restored 17th-century mansion and displays traditional costumes, furnishings, and exhibits on the fur trade. The lake supports diverse birdlife and is an important wetland ecosystem.