The Old Fortress is a Venetian fortress on a rocky headland at the eastern edge of Corfu Town. A moat separates it from the rest of the town, and a bridge crosses it. The Venetians built it on the site of a Byzantine castle, and its arched gateways, tunnels, bastions and lookout points show the layers of building that followed. Climb to the upper points for views over the old town, the harbour and the Ionian Sea. Small exhibitions explain the island's military past.
A fortress built over older walls
The fortress occupies a rocky headland on the eastern side of Corfu Town. A moat separates it from the rest of the town, and a bridge crosses the moat, so the site feels separate once you pass through the gate.
A Byzantine castle stood on this ground before the Venetians arrived, and the whole Byzantine city was once enclosed within stone walls here. The Venetians built and reshaped the fortress over the centuries, and most of what visitors walk through today comes from their work.
The ancient historian Thucydides mentions the promontory. The name of the island is linked to the two peaks of the fortress, from a word meaning peak.
What is inside
Visitors can walk the arched gateways, tunnels, bastions and lookout points. Only parts of the large site are open to visitors, although it also holds later structures from the British era.
Inside the walls there is a small museum with exhibits on the island's history, and a chapel. Exhibitions on military history and Venetian heritage are spread through the complex. The interior has been restored to hold cultural events through the year, and concerts are held here in summer. On some visits you may hear music students rehearsing.
The higher hill has a lighthouse, and the walk up to it gives the widest views of the sea and the mainland. The Esplanade, a large open park, lies between the fortress and the old town.
How a visit works
Most visits take one to two hours, with time for the walk up and a look at the exhibitions. The climb to the top is a long, gradual walk on paths rather than a trail hike, but the route includes stairs and uneven stone, so allow time on the way up.
Plaques in Greek and English are set around the site. The HH Guide app offers audio descriptions with transcripts for more context, and it is worth downloading before you arrive. The order in which the site developed is not always clear on the ground, so the audio material helps.
Getting there and facilities
The fortress is next to Spianada Square and Liston. A hop-on, hop-off bus stops just outside. Parking is available in a paid lot and on nearby streets, some free and some paid.
The entrance is wheelchair accessible. Free public toilets are inside the complex, and there is a café and gift shop as well.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Visitors buy a ticket to enter the fortress, and advance tickets are recommended. Check the official website for current prices.
How long do you need?
Plan one to two hours for a relaxed walk that includes the climb to the upper points and the exhibitions.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning or later in the afternoon, when the sun is less strong and there are fewer crowds.
Is the fortress wheelchair accessible?
The entrance is wheelchair accessible. The site has many stairs and uneven stone paths, so the upper areas may be hard to reach.
Is there a café inside?
Yes, there is a small café and a gift shop inside the walls.
