Name: Old Fortress of Corfu
Address: Corfu 491 00, Greece
Telephone: 2661 048120
Rating: 4.6

Scenic ruins of an ancient fort, with artifacts on display, a seating area & a church.

The Achilleion Palace

Provided by Google

Butrint National Archaeological Park

Paragaea Old Olive Oil Factory

The Old Fortress's fortifications can be traced back to the 6th century AD, showcasing its long and rich history.

Ancient Origins

The Old Fortress successfully defended against three major Ottoman sieges in 1537, 1571, and 1716, demonstrating its strategic importance and strength.

Ottoman Sieges

The Old Fortress boasts a moat, a classic defensive element that further enhanced its protection against invaders.

Defensive Feature

The Old Fortress is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Town Corfu, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.

World Heritage Site

During World War II, the Old Fortress fell under Nazi control and was used to imprison Jews in 1944, highlighting its tragic role in the conflict.

Nazi Occupation

Old Fortress of Corfu

The Old Fortress of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to the island's rich history and strategic importance. Perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the Ionian Sea, the fortress boasts a unique double enceinte, a rare architectural feature that showcases its defensive prowess. Its Venetian origins are evident in the intricate bastions, ramparts, and the imposing seaward walls, which have withstood countless sieges over the centuries.

Within the fortress walls lies a hidden gem – the Church of St. George, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture adorned with exquisite frescoes and intricate carvings. The church's serene atmosphere stands in stark contrast to the fortress's military past, offering a glimpse into the island's spiritual heritage.

A visit to the Old Fortress is not complete without exploring the Venetian Quarter, a charming labyrinth of narrow streets and colorful houses. Here, history comes alive as you wander past ancient monuments, hidden courtyards, and traditional tavernas. The quarter's vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural heritage transport visitors back to a bygone era.

The Old Fortress of Corfu is more than just a historical landmark; it is a living testament to the island's resilience and cultural tapestry. Its unique blend of military architecture, religious significance, and Venetian charm makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to delve into the heart of Corfu's history.

Introduction

The Old Fortress of Corfu, a majestic sentinel overlooking the Ionian Sea, holds immense strategic importance in the island's history. Perched on a rocky promontory, it served as an impenetrable barrier against invaders, safeguarding Corfu's strategic position in the Mediterranean.

The fortress's origins trace back to the Byzantine era, when it was initially constructed as a defensive outpost. However, it was during Venetian rule that the fortress underwent significant expansion and fortification. The Venetians, recognizing Corfu's strategic significance, transformed the fortress into a formidable stronghold, complete with towering walls, imposing gates, and intricate defensive systems.

The fortress's strategic location, overlooking the harbor and surrounding countryside, made it a key defensive position. Its massive walls, fortified towers, and intricate defensive systems, including a moat, drawbridge, and underground tunnels, effectively repelled numerous attacks from Ottoman forces, pirates, and other invaders.

During the Ottoman sieges of 1537, 1571, and 1716, the Old Fortress stood firm, demonstrating its strategic importance and military might. Its robust construction and strategic location proved crucial in safeguarding Corfu from invasion, solidifying its position as a vital stronghold in the Mediterranean.

The Old Fortress's strategic importance extended beyond its military prowess. It served as a vital commercial hub, controlling access to the harbor and facilitating trade routes. Its strategic location made it a crucial point of control for goods and resources, contributing to Corfu's economic prosperity.

Today, the Old Fortress stands as a testament to Corfu's rich history and strategic importance. Its imposing walls, intricate defensive systems, and breathtaking views offer a glimpse into the island's past and its role as a vital Mediterranean stronghold. The fortress's strategic significance continues to resonate, reminding us of its enduring role in shaping Corfu's history and identity.

Strategic Importance

The Old Fortress of Corfu, a testament to Venetian ingenuity, stands as a prominent example of their masterful fortification techniques. Its strategic location on the eastern side of Corfu Town, guarding the entrance to the harbor, reflects the Venetians' meticulous approach to defense.

The fortress underwent significant transformations during Venetian rule, evolving from Byzantine fortifications to a formidable stronghold. The Venetians constructed new bastions and towers, incorporating the latest advancements in military architecture. The impressive Contrafossa, a sea channel separating the fortress from the mainland, further enhanced its impregnability.

The Old Fortress played a pivotal role in repelling Ottoman sieges, showcasing the effectiveness of Venetian fortifications. Its sturdy walls and strategic design withstood relentless attacks, safeguarding the island from invaders. The fortress's resilience is a testament to the Venetians' exceptional engineering skills and their commitment to protecting their territories.

Beyond its military significance, the Old Fortress embodies the cultural and architectural legacy of the Venetians. Its intricate design, incorporating elements of both Byzantine and Venetian styles, reflects the island's rich history and cultural influences. The fortress serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of Venetian rule on Corfu, shaping its landscape and identity.

Today, the Old Fortress stands as a captivating landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into Corfu's past. Its well-preserved structures, including the impressive bastions, towers, and the Contrafossa, provide a tangible connection to the island's Venetian heritage. The fortress's captivating history and architectural significance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking to delve into the rich tapestry of Corfu's past.

Venetian Fortifications

The Old Fortress of Corfu, a formidable sentinel guarding the island's eastern shores, bears witness to a rich tapestry of history, woven with threads of Byzantine resilience and strategic brilliance. Its origins trace back to the 6th century, when the Byzantine Empire, facing relentless invasions, sought refuge on the island. The peninsula's strategic location, overlooking the Ionian Sea and offering natural defenses, made it the ideal site for a fortress.

Byzantine engineers, renowned for their architectural prowess, constructed a formidable stronghold, transforming the peninsula into an island by severing its land connection. The fortress's walls, adorned with intricate Byzantine motifs, stood tall, defying the relentless waves of invaders. Within its confines, a vibrant Byzantine community flourished, complete with a chapel, barracks, and a bustling marketplace.

The fortress's strategic significance was paramount during the Byzantine-Arab Wars, when it served as a crucial bulwark against Arab incursions. Its sturdy walls withstood countless sieges, its defenders repelling attacks with unwavering determination. The fortress's intricate network of tunnels and underground chambers provided safe haven for the island's inhabitants during times of conflict.

The Byzantine legacy of the Old Fortress is evident in its architectural details, showcasing the empire's distinctive artistic flair. The fortress's chapel, adorned with intricate Byzantine frescoes, stands as a testament to the empire's deep-rooted faith. The remnants of Byzantine pottery and artifacts unearthed within the fortress walls offer glimpses into the daily lives of its Byzantine inhabitants.

Today, the Old Fortress stands as a poignant reminder of the Byzantine Empire's enduring presence in Corfu. Its weathered walls whisper tales of resilience, strategic brilliance, and a rich cultural heritage. As visitors explore its labyrinthine passages and marvel at its panoramic views, they embark on a journey through time, retracing the footsteps of the Byzantines who once called this fortress home.

Byzantine History

The Old Fortress of Corfu, a formidable structure perched on a rocky peninsula, played a pivotal role in safeguarding Corfu against Ottoman incursions. Its strategic location and robust fortifications proved instrumental in repelling numerous sieges, earning it the moniker "The Gibraltar of the East."

In 1537, Ottoman forces led by Suleiman the Magnificent laid siege to Corfu. Despite their overwhelming numbers, the Ottomans were unable to breach the Old Fortress's defenses. The Venetian garrison, bolstered by the courage of the Corfiote population, held firm, inflicting heavy losses on the attackers. The siege ended in a humiliating defeat for the Ottomans, marking a turning point in the struggle for control of the eastern Mediterranean.

Just over three decades later, in 1571, the Ottomans returned, determined to conquer Corfu. Once again, the Old Fortress stood as an insurmountable obstacle. The Venetian defenders, led by the renowned general Marcantonio Bragadin, repelled wave after wave of attacks. The siege dragged on for months, but the Ottomans were ultimately forced to withdraw, their ambitions thwarted by the resilience of the fortress and its defenders.

The final Ottoman attempt to capture Corfu came in 1716. This time, the Ottomans employed a massive force, hoping to overwhelm the defenders. However, the Old Fortress, under the command of Count Johann Matthias von der Schulenburg, proved impregnable. The Ottomans bombarded the fortress relentlessly, but its thick walls and ingenious design withstood the onslaught. After several months of futile attacks, the Ottomans abandoned the siege, marking the end of their attempts to conquer Corfu.

The Old Fortress of Corfu stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the Venetian and Corfiote people. Its successful defense against repeated Ottoman sieges secured Corfu's strategic importance and preserved its rich cultural heritage. Today, the fortress serves as a reminder of the island's turbulent past and its enduring spirit.

Old Fortress of Corfu

Did You Know?

Ancient Origins

Ottoman Sieges

Defensive Feature

World Heritage Site

Location