Pantokratoras Castle, Ottoman coastal fortress in Pantokratoras, Greece.
Pantokratoras Castle is a pentagon-shaped fortress positioned at the entrance to the Amvrakikos Gulf with tall surrounding walls that define its outer boundary. The interior features a central courtyard enclosed by vaulted chambers that form the core of the complex.
The fortress was designed in 1807 by French engineer Vaudoncourt for Ali Pasha as part of regional strategic plans. Years later the structure transitioned to serve as a state prison, marking a major shift in its purpose.
A small chapel dedicated to Agioi Anargyroi sits within the eastern section of the southern wing. The presence of this sacred space inside a military fortress shows how religious and defensive purposes coexisted here.
The fortress sits approximately 400 meters from the underwater tunnel connecting Preveza and Aktio, making it easily reachable from either side. Both the northern and eastern entrances are open to visitors, allowing flexible routes through the complex.
The structure was later repurposed as a state prison with holding areas in the southwest wing connected by a concrete balcony overlooking the courtyard. This unexpected shift from military stronghold to detention facility reveals how the building adapted to changing needs.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
