New Castle
   Photos: New Castle

The new fortress of Corfu town, also known as the New Fortress, located on a hill near St. Mark's old city harbor and protect the city from the west. This structure is slightly less than the Old Fortress, but it is more interesting from an architectural point of view.

Construction of the fortress began in 1576 by the Venetians, when it became clear that the old fortress is not enough to complete the defense of the city. Design and construction of fortifications engaged Venetian architect Francesco Vitelli. For the construction of the fortress (to collect building material) was destroyed over 2,000 buildings. Completed basic construction was only in 1645. Later the additions were also made by the French and British.

New Castle is a two-tier structure. The main function of the lower level was to protect the port. The upper level is intended for the defense of the city. The fortress consists of two massive twin bastions, which stands majestically above the port. Two of the main gate of the fortress is well preserved until today. They are decorated with the symbol of Venice - the winged lion of St. Mark. Preserved and underground tunnels that connect the new with the old castle and the town, but they are closed to the public. On one side of the fortress moat surrounds anhydrous. The fortress was severely damaged during the bombing during the Second World War, but was later restored.

The two urban fortresses were once connected by walls that were destroyed during the unification of the island of Corfu and Greece.

Officially, it is a grand old building is called "Fortress of St. Mark", but more often it is simply called "New Castle". Today, it is open daily to visit and you can make a short tour through the maze of medieval corridors and fortifications. From the top of the fortress offers beautiful panoramic views. After restoration there are exhibitions of painting, photography, sculpture, music concerts and other cultural events. In the territory also has a small cafe.

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