Mytilene Maps

Mytilene is the capital and port of Lesbos, the third-largest Greek island, located in the northeastern Aegean Sea. The city has a population of approximately 27,000 and is built around a natural harbor. Mytilene has a history dating back to the 11th century BCE and was the birthplace of several notable ancient figures, including the poets Sappho and Alcaeus.

The Castle of Mytilene, one of the largest medieval castles in the Mediterranean, was built by the Byzantine emperor Justinian in the 6th century CE and extensively modified by the Genoese Gattilusio family in the 14th century. The fortress covers approximately 200,000 square meters and features massive walls, towers, and gates. The castle grounds contain a Roman cistern, a Byzantine chapel, and remnants of an Ottoman medrese.

The Archaeological Museum of Mytilene houses an extensive collection of artifacts from Lesbos, including Roman mosaics from the villas of ancient Mytilene. The new wing contains important finds from prehistoric settlements. The Theophilos Museum displays works by Theophilos Hatzimihail, a renowned 19th-century folk painter born on Lesbos. The town features several elegant neoclassical mansions along the waterfront, remnants of the city's prosperity during the 19th century. The Church of Agios Therapon, a large domed cathedral built in the 19th century, dominates the central square. Lesbos is famous for producing ouzo, and several distilleries operate in Mytilene. The island is also known for its olive oil production.