Corfu Old Fortress, Venetian fortress in Corfu, Greece
Corfu Old Fortress is a fortified structure built on a rocky peninsula on the eastern side of the town and separated from the mainland by a wide artificial moat called the Contrafossa. The site features multiple levels connected by stone staircases, housing various buildings, casemates, and defensive structures that reflect different architectural periods.
Construction started in 1545 under Venetian rule, replacing earlier Byzantine fortifications on the site. The fortress withstood three major Ottoman sieges and served as a key defensive position for the island throughout this period.
The Church of Saint George inside follows ancient Doric temple design and displays religious artworks spanning different periods. Walking through this space, you can see how artistic styles changed over centuries within the same building.
You can reach the fortress by crossing an iron bridge where the original drawbridge once stood. Wear sturdy shoes as the paths are uneven and surfaces can become slippery, especially after rain.
The Public Library of Corfu is housed within the fortress in former British barracks and preserves an archive spanning over 600 years of historical documents. This collection allows visitors to explore original writings and records from different periods of the island's past.
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