Bourtzi is an island fort, located off the coast of Nafplio, in Greece. It is an incredibly imposing structure that was originally part of the city's defenses, connected to the mainland by thick chain walls to prevent enemy ships from docking or getting close.
Built by the Venetians in the 15th century once they realised the strategic importance of this small and unassuming island, located right by the port of Nafplio, it is on an imperfect hexagon plan that matches the shape of the island itself. Perfectly in tune with its setting, it is a picturesque and extraordinary building.
Pirates were, initially, the primary concern but it was to the Ottoman Turks that the fortress fell in 1715. Once in control, they fortified the building further and dropped big rocks into the waters nearby, ensuring that no ships or big boats could get close.
Built by the Venetians in the 15th century once they realised the strategic importance of this small and unassuming island, located right by the port of Nafplio, it is on an imperfect hexagon plan that matches the shape of the island itself. Perfectly in tune with its setting, it is a picturesque and extraordinary building.
Pirates were, initially, the primary concern but it was to the Ottoman Turks that the fortress fell in 1715. Once in control, they fortified the building further and dropped big rocks into the waters nearby, ensuring that no ships or big boats could get close.
Then, between 1821 and 1832, during the Greek Revolution, the fort was won back by the Greeks, who housed their leaders there. In the latter half of the 19th century they moved out and executioners were moved in, in their stead. Not the most popular people in the world, the men charged with carrying out the death sentences of the criminals incarcerated in the Greek prison of Palamidi were made live on the island because most people did not want to be near them. Then, in the 20th century, the building had another drastic change of purpose and was converted into a luxury hotel in the 1930s, running right up to the 1970s.
Nowadays, it is purely a tourist attraction (currently partially closed as it undergoes restoration) and a place where events such as concerts are often held in the summer months. It is especially recommended to visit just before sunset and take in the incredible views over Nafplio that are afforded from the fortress. Boats head over every half hour, the trip lasts only a few minutes and entrance is free, though the boat trip costs about Euros. Just find a vacation rental in Peloponnese and come explore this charming building.
Nowadays, it is purely a tourist attraction (currently partially closed as it undergoes restoration) and a place where events such as concerts are often held in the summer months. It is especially recommended to visit just before sunset and take in the incredible views over Nafplio that are afforded from the fortress. Boats head over every half hour, the trip lasts only a few minutes and entrance is free, though the boat trip costs about Euros. Just find a vacation rental in Peloponnese and come explore this charming building.
Photo credit: EntaXoyas / CC BY-SA 3.0