Frourio Komotini, укріплення в м. Комотіні, Фракія, Греція
Frourio Komotini is a fortress in the city of Komotini featuring thick stone walls and towers that date to Byzantine times. The structure occupies a defensive position with clear views across the surrounding area, and its construction shows layers of brick and stone fitted tightly together.
The fortress was likely constructed around 1305, possibly by a local leader named Glavas who built several castles in the region for protection. In 1363 it came under Ottoman control, which lasted until the early 1900s, and over those centuries it changed hands multiple times.
The fortress remains a symbol of the city's resilience and past struggles for survival. Locals regard it as an important connection to their heritage, and the weathered stones serve as a silent reminder of how communities once protected themselves.
The site is relatively accessible with open paths allowing you to explore the walls and tower ruins up close, though some sections are protected to prevent collapse. Parts of the fortress are scattered among modern buildings in the city center, making it easy to visit but requiring some navigation to find intact sections.
The fortress was part of a broader network of castles and defenses across the region, yet unlike many others it remains embedded within the modern city rather than standing alone. This placement creates an unusual contrast where ancient stones coexist with contemporary buildings, making the historical site feel alive within daily urban life.
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