Neratzia, Medieval fortress at the harbor entrance in Kos, Greece.
Neratzia is a medieval fortress at the harbor entrance in Kos, featuring two fortified enclosures with round corner towers, massive bastions, and battlements. This structure overlooks the Aegean Sea from its strategic harbor location, serving both as a transportation hub and defensive stronghold.
Construction of the fortress began in 1436 under the Knights Hospitaller and continued until 1514, serving as a crucial defense point during the Crusades. The extended building process reflects the ongoing threats and strategic requirements the island faced throughout that period.
The fortress walls incorporate architectural elements from the ancient city of Kos and the Asklepieion, including a Hellenistic frieze and granite columns. These materials come from earlier structures and tell the story of different periods that shaped this location.
Visitors reach the fortress through Phoinikon Street, a palm-lined promenade connecting Hippocrates Square to the main entrance via a stone bridge. The route is clearly marked and offers a pleasant introduction to the site before exploring the inner areas.
The oldest tower within the fortress displays coats of arms from multiple Grand Masters of the Knights Hospitaller, documenting the building phases of the site. These emblems are visible records of the different periods when the structure was expanded over several decades.
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