The Fortifications of Messenia: from Byzantium to the Modern Greek State [in Greek] By Nikos D. Kontogiannis

https://www.academia.edu/3636159/The_Fortifications_of_Messenia_from_Byzantium_to_the_Modern_Greek_State_in_Greek_?sm=b&rhid=37229243351 "Numerous fortifications varying in size, defensive features or the duration of their use are located in the geographic entity of Messenia that includes also a part of Mani (known as ‘exo’, outer Mani). The present paper examines their architecture in relation to the different social and political realities that occurred in this area from the early Christian era to the mid-20th century. Few remains can be ascribed with certainty to the byzantine period up to 1204. Various construction phases are discerned but they can scarcely be dated with certainty. For the period from the thirteenth to the fifteenth century, five types of fortifications are distinguished based on their position, size and defensive features. It is concluded that the fortifications were directly linked to the new social and political reality that prevailed in the area under Frankish, Venetian or Late Byzantine rule. At the time of the First Ottoman Rule (1460/1500 until 1685), administration focused on two areas that were treated differently. The western shores, as the border of the empire, were secured by constructing a new fort (Navarin-i cedid, mod. Pylos Fortress) and modernizing castles to counter the advanced munitions of external enemies. In the eastern district of Mani, fortifications were intended to restrain the unruly inhabitants. Their defenses were weak, able to withstand only small bands with rudimentary arms rather than professional armies. The Second Venetian Rule (1685-1715) was marked by the ambitious plans of Venetian administrators to improve the defenses of Messenia. Almost all were left incomplete or unfulfilled, with the exception of the Methoni castle. After the area reverted to ottoman administration (1715-1821) a serious effort was made to revive the walled cities, restore the fortifications and the public structures therein. Mani became a semi-independent region, with a variety of small forts being constructed by powerful families (i.e. the complex of Palaia Kardamili). During the Greek War of Independence, the castles served as refuges or operational bases for the fighting armies. After the establishment of the modern Greek State, their military use was short-lived. They were either abandoned or used for secondary functions. Their last use was as barracks for the occupying army during World War II. " ...