Kazarma Fortress rises above the harbor in Sitia, on Crete’s eastern coast. Built during Venetian rule in the 13th century, it was used as a barracks or military headquarters and formed part of the town’s defenses. Inside, the preserved walls, a few history panels and the Tower of Kazarma are the main sights; the climb to the keep rewards you with views over Sitia and its bay. In summer, the open-air site also hosts concerts and theater performances, often in the evening.
A fortress above Sitia’s harbor
Kazarma, also known as Casa di Arma, stands on a hill above Sitia’s harbor. Its name comes from the Italian for an arms house or barracks. Built during Venetian rule in the 13th century, it served a military purpose and formed part of the town’s defenses. The fortress is the surviving part of Sitia’s old walls, which once enclosed the town.
The site has been damaged over time. An earthquake struck in 1303, and the Venetians damaged parts of the fortress when they left Sitia in 1651. The preserved walls and Tower of Kazarma remain the clearest signs of its medieval role.
Inside the walls
The interior is sparse, with a few basic panels about the fortress’s past. Take time to read them as you move through the grounds, then look through the small windows and climb toward the keep. From above, the view opens over Sitia, its harbor and the bay.
The open-air fortress also becomes a venue for concerts and theater performances in summer, usually in the evening. If an event is part of your plan, check for its schedule before setting out. The fortress is easy to spot from around Sitia, perched above the town.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Kazarma Fortress?
It is on a hill above the harbor in Sitia, on Crete.
When was Kazarma Fortress built?
The fortress was built during Venetian rule in the 13th century.
What can you see inside Kazarma Fortress?
The site has preserved walls, the Tower of Kazarma and a few panels about its history. The keep gives views over Sitia and the bay.
Are there events at Kazarma Fortress?
Concerts and theater performances are held at the open-air site during summer, often in the evening.
