Old Fortress

Corfu, Greece, Greece

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The Old Fortress of Corfu is a historic Venetian citadel located on a rocky peninsula at the eastern edge of Corfu Town.

Although the site was fortified during Byzantine times, the Venetians extensively rebuilt and strengthened it from the 15th century onward, transforming it into one of the Mediterranean’s most formidable coastal fortresses. A distinctive feature of the fortress is the Contrafossa, a seawater moat created by Venetian engineers that separated the fortress from the mainland and effectively turned it into an artificial island.

Its powerful defenses successfully withstood major Ottoman sieges in 1537, 1571, and 1716, helping protect Corfu from conquest. The fortress is built on twin rocky peaks, which gave Corfu its western name and provide sweeping views of the town and sea. Over the centuries, it was used by Venetian, French, British, and Greek authorities, with later additions including the Church of St. George and a lighthouse.

Today, the Old Fortress is one of Corfu’s most famous landmarks and a key part of the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Corfu. Visitors can explore its historic walls, gates, and buildings while enjoying panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the city below.