Heptapyrgion, Byzantine fortress in Ano Poli, Greece
Heptapyrgion is a Byzantine fortress sitting on the acropolis of Thessaloniki with massive stone walls and ten towers dominating the skyline. The structure spreads across multiple levels with far-reaching views of the city from its positions.
The fortress was founded as a Byzantine fortification and took on new roles as a military post after the Ottoman conquest in 1431. In the late 19th century its purpose changed fundamentally when it became a prison.
The fortress reflects different chapters of the city's past, from Byzantine defense through centuries of Ottoman rule to its later use as a prison. Visitors can experience these layers of history directly in the walls and towers today.
Visitors should expect steep paths and wear comfortable shoes, as the site sits on a hill with several staircases to navigate. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the paths are less crowded and light is more favorable.
The name means 'Fortress of Seven Towers' yet the actual structure has ten towers instead of seven. This mismatch between the name and reality often surprises visitors who encounter the historical designation.
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