Izzeddin Fortress, Ottoman fortress in Kalami, Greece.
Izzeddin Fortress is a fortification on a hill near Kalami on the island of Crete that was built during Ottoman rule. The structure features thick stone walls and was strategically positioned to overlook the bay and protect the coastal area.
Izzeddin was constructed in 1872 as a military fortification under Ottoman control and named after a member of the sultan's family. It was later repurposed as a political prison in the 20th century and held this role for several decades afterward.
The fortress served as a political prison, and its cells still show traces of this darker chapter in its history. Visitors can walk through the confined spaces and sense how the building was repurposed far beyond its original military role.
The site lies east of Chania and is relatively easy to reach, making it a good destination for visitors interested in architecture and history. The grounds are largely walkable, though some areas have uneven terrain and steep sections that require careful footing.
The fortress was the site of an extraordinary moment in Greek legal history when the nation's final execution took place within its walls. This event became a turning point that shaped how the country approached its justice system afterward.
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