Kazarma Fortress, Medieval fortress in Sitia, Greece
Kazarma Fortress sits on a hilltop overlooking Sitia's port, built with two floors connected by internal staircases that lead up to defensive battlements. From the top, you can see across the harbor and the town below.
The fortress was built during the Byzantine period between 961 and 1204 and underwent multiple reconstructions under Venetian rule. Venice abandoned it in 1651 after centuries of occupation and modifications.
The fortress currently functions as a venue for the Kornaria Festival, celebrating the literary works of Sitia's poet Vitsentzos Kornaros.
You can visit the fortress on most days, though opening hours vary by season. Wear comfortable shoes since the path to the top involves climbing steep slopes.
The name comes from the Italian phrase 'Casa di arma,' meaning guard barracks, revealing the fortress's original military purpose. This linguistic connection shows the strong link between the structure and its Italian builders.
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