The Fortezza is a Venetian fortress on the hill above Rethymno's old town, built in the 16th century and still enclosed by its high walls and bastions. Inside, the grounds are mostly open, with a few preserved buildings, including a restored mosque and a small church. The main reason to climb up is the view over the harbour, the old town and the sea. Adults pay €5 to enter. Allow about 40 minutes to an hour, and go early, before the heat builds.
Why the Venetians built it
Venice ruled large parts of Crete, and the Fortezza was built in the 16th century on the hill where the ancient town of Rithymna once stood. Its design follows the bastion system, with bastions joined by long straight walls. The walls have a wide base and an outer slope, so that incoming projectiles would be deflected rather than break the structure.
The need for it was real. A smaller fortress that stood earlier on the site could not stop an attack by pirate galleys in 1571. The Venetians then used forced labourers from the town and nearby villages to build the larger compound, which was the largest fortress on Crete at the time. By the early 20th century, the interior was almost completely built up.
The Ottomans took the town in 1646 after a short siege. A village later grew up on the grounds, and most of it was destroyed in the Second World War.
Inside the walls
The grounds are large and mostly open. A few buildings stand among the palm trees, and the fields inside the walls bloom with wildflowers in spring. The Ibrahim Khan Mosque, which has a large dome, is the most prominent building. The small church of Agios Theodoros Trichinas is also here, along with the old ammunition depot, where cannons and weapons were kept, and the Rector's residence in the central square of the fortress.
The Erofili Theatre hosts plays, music and dance, and it is the setting for the Rethymnon Renaissance Festival each summer. The castle has also hosted painting exhibitions, conferences and film shows.
The buildings carry little signage, so a visitor who wants a full account of each one should prepare in advance.
Walking the ramparts
The walls are high and well preserved, and walking the top gives the best view of the old town, the harbour and the coast. From the battlements you can follow the old defensive trenches between the towers, bastions and gates. You will feel the salty breeze from the Sea of Crete up there.
The paths are uneven in places, with stairs and raised walls. Take your time and watch your footing, especially near the edges.
Planning your visit
Adults pay €5 to enter. A map is given at the gate, but it gives little detail, and the buildings are hard to tell apart without context. Most visits take about 40 minutes to an hour, though history enthusiasts can spend several hours here. Drinks are sold inside the fortress.
The Venetian harbour and its old lighthouse lie in the old town below the fortress. The promenade there has cafes and restaurants, and the lighthouse is a popular place to watch the sunset.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Adults pay €5 to enter the Fortezza.
How long do you need?
Most visits take about 40 minutes to an hour. History enthusiasts can spend several hours exploring the site.
Is the Fortezza good for children?
The site is listed as good for kids, but some drops have no barriers or warning signs, and the ground has stairs and uneven surfaces. Keep young children close at all times.
Are there guided tours or information boards?
There are no guided tours on site, and there are few information boards. Read about the history before your visit, and take the map from the gate.
