Larisa is the ancient acropolis of Argos, located on a high rocky hill. It is said to have been built by Danaos. The hill’s name is said to derive from Larissa, a figure from Greek mythology. Originally, a temple to Zeus Larisaios and a temple to Athena are said to have stood there.

The first fortifications were built during the Mycenaean period. The Romans conquered the castle in 146 BC, and the Visigoths in 395 AD. Around 600 AD, it fell into the hands of the Slavs who were migrating onto the peninsula.
The Byzantines founded a new castle there in the 12th century.

The Byzantines founded a new castle there in the 12th century. In 1212, it was captured by the Crusader Geoffrey of Villehardouin. It was surrendered to the Duke of Athens, Otto de la Roche, becoming one of the chief fortresses of the Lordship of Argos and Nauplia. In 1394, it was sold to the Republic of Venice, and in 1463 the Ottomans finally took possession of the castle.