Patras Castle, Medieval fortress in Patras, Greece
Patras Castle is a triangular fortification rising above the city with multiple towers, gates, and an inner compound on its northeastern side. The walls were built using stones from earlier buildings and offer views over Patras and the surrounding landscape.
Byzantine Emperor Justinian I ordered construction of this fortress in 551 AD, using materials from earlier structures after a devastating earthquake struck the region. The fortification later became an important defense position in a strategically vital area.
The local legend of Patrinella tells of a woman who transformed into a male guardian during Ottoman times to protect citizens from disease. This story remains part of local memory and shapes how residents understand their city's past.
Start exploring from the lower areas and work your way up to the upper sections for a natural path through the site. The paths are steep and uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is important and daylight visits allow you to see the structures clearly.
Pre-Christian architectural elements are built into the exterior walls, including ancient domes, columns, and friezes. These reused pieces tell the story of older civilizations that existed at the same spot before the fortress was built.
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