Old Fortress of Corfu, Military fortress in Corfu, Greece
The Old Fortress of Corfu sits on a rocky peninsula with two hills, separated from the city by an artificial moat called Contrafossa. Today it houses the Historical Archives of Corfu, a public library, and other cultural institutions within its walls.
Construction of this fortress began in the 6th century and underwent significant changes during Venetian rule. It successfully withstood three Ottoman sieges, making it a key point in the island's defense against invasions.
Saint George Church, built in 1840 in Doric style by the British, originally served their community before becoming a Catholic place of worship. The building reflects the religious diversity that developed through different periods of rule on the island.
Visiting requires an entrance ticket and specific opening hours that may vary by season. It is advisable to check current conditions beforehand and wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds include hills.
The fortress displays defensive structures from different historical periods layered upon one another: the eastern hill shows Byzantine fortifications while the western hill bears Venetian construction. Walking through these layers allows visitors to read centuries of military architectural evolution in a single place.
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