Karytaina is one of the most historically significant settlements of Arcadia, with a continuous presence in the political and military history of the Peloponnese from the Middle Ages to modern Greece. Built in a strategic location at the confluence of the Lousios and Alpheios rivers, it has been officially recognized as a traditional settlement. The importance of Karytaina dates back to the Frankish period, when in the 13th century it became the capital of one of the baronies of the Peloponnese. From this era survives the impressive fortress that dominates the hilltop, controlling the routes toward Messinia, Elis, and Gortynia. Access to the castle was provided by a paved stone path, while its main entrance, an arched gateway, stood on the southeastern side. Next to the fortress lies the small church of Panagia tou Kastrou, a cross-in-square church with an exonarthex. Karytaina retained its strategic and geographical significance during the Ottoman period (from 1461 onward), when it developed into a commercial and administrative center. In the 18th century the town flourished, becoming the seat of the voevoda, the Ottoman military and civil governor of the region. Its position along a major road axis strengthened its role as a hub of communication and trade. The Greek Revolution of 1821 placed Karytaina at the heart of the unfolding events. On 25 March 1821, Greek fighters from Zygovitsi under Theodosios Kardaras and from Stemnitsa under Konstantinos Alexandropoulos advanced toward the town to capture the Ottoman inhabitants, who managed to take refuge in the castle. Shortly afterwards, in April 1821, the first organized Greek military camp was established here, led by Theodoros Kolokotronis with the participation of captains from across the Peloponnese. In 1826, during Ibrahim Pasha’s campaign, Kolokotronis repaired the castle of Karytaina and used it as a base of operations as well as a refuge for women, children, and civilians of the region. From this period survives the so‑called “House of Kolokotronis,” preserved today in ruins on the plateau at the summit. Karytaina remains to this day a living monument of the historical and cultural heritage of the Peloponnese.