In ancient times it was called Pidassos, while Pausanias mentions that the city was also called Mothoni, from the mythical stone on which its castle was built (parts of ancient fortifications are still preserved in today's medieval castle). Homer characterizes it as Ampeloessa and it was one of the seven "beautified cities" (favourable ptoliethra) that Agamemnon offered to Achilles to appease him.
At the end of the 8th century BC century passed under the rule of the Spartans and, while the rest of Messinia was liberated in 370 BC, Methoni had to wait another 30 years to be freed by the intervention of Philip of Macedonia.
The city is today rich in ancient, Byzantine and Venetian monuments (churches, mosques and fortifications) but what dominates its image is its imposing castle with the Bourzi built on the sea. It is one of the most important and beautiful castles in Greece and was built in 1209 AD.
That's why, if you find yourself in western Messinia, don't miss to visit Methoni and walk around the castle to the enchanting Bourtzi.
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