A new life begins for Skiathos Castle

Things are afoot on the northern tip of Skiathos, a spot where history and nature meet in perfect harmony, as the Northern Sporades island's castle is being treated to one of the biggest restoration efforts ever to take place here.

Long neglected, the fortified settlement - in an area that was first inhabited in the 6th or 7th century AD - is being brought back from oblivion so that it can be open and accessible, with restored monuments and new paved paths.

Dozens of employees from various state services and experts have been hard at work on the task of bringing the castle back to life, while maintaining the fine balance between development and respect for important historical monuments and religious sites, as well as for the island's incredible natural landscape.

The castle gate, as seen from the inside. [Ephorate of Magnesia Antiquities]

The project is a...