During the 13th century big parts of the Peloponnese were under the control of the Franks. Around 1248 the Franks built, the castle of "Megali Maini" on the western side of Mani, on pre-existing fortifications. Although the historical sources provide lots of information about its architecture, operation and location, the exact location of the castle remains unknown to the present day. Some researchers, however, identify it with Tigani castle.