Corfu New Fortress, Venetian fortress on St. Mark's Hill, Corfu, Greece
Description
The Corfu New Fortress is a Venetian defensive structure on Saint Mark's Hill with two main levels and a three-story building called Punta Perpetua. The structure features a pentagonal bastion system with underground military installations built into the hillside.
History
Construction began in 1572 under Venetian engineer Ferrante Vitelli in response to Ottoman expansion threats. The British added more fortifications during their rule in the 1800s.
Culture
The fortification displays carved winged lions of Saint Mark and Latin inscriptions that mark the Venetian presence on the island. You can see these symbols throughout the structure, serving as reminders of centuries spent under Venetian control.
Practical
The site is reachable by a short walk from the central bus station or nearby parking areas and maintains regular opening hours. The walk uphill is manageable and pathways through the grounds are straightforward to navigate.
Did you know?
The dry moat running along the western side extends from the current vegetable market to the New Harbor and shows engineering methods from the 1600s. This hidden defensive line played a key role in protecting the harbor from attack.
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