Anthousa Castle, Castle ruin and archaeological site in Parga Municipality, Greece
Anthousa Castle is a stone fortress ruin on a steep hill near the village of Anthoussa, in Parga Municipality in northwestern Greece. It has two inner courtyards, several towers, and a tall eastern tower that stands about 50 feet (15 meters) high, with gun positions at the top.
The fortress was built in 1814 by Ali Pasha of Ioannina, who wanted to control Parga, which was then under French rule. Just a few years after it was finished, the British handed Parga to the Ottomans in 1819, and the castle quickly lost its purpose.
Walking through the ruins, you can still read the layout of the old courtyards and towers in the remaining stonework. The site draws people who enjoy exploring on their own, without crowds or guided tours, at their own pace.
The site is open to visitors without any prior reservation, but sturdy shoes and water are worth bringing for the climb. The access road from the village of Anthoussa is narrow and steep, so it is best to go on foot from the village.
The fortress was designed by an Italian engineer named Santo di Monteleone, and repairs were needed shortly after it was finished due to structural problems. The hill is so steep on most sides that the only way in is from the northwest.
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