One of the main attractions of the Greek city of Patras considered the ruins of the once majestic Byzantine fortress. Grand fortification was built in the second half of the 6th century on a small hill 800 meters from the coastline on the ruins of the ancient acropolis and was used continuously until the end of World War II.

The fortress was built by order of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian after the massive earthquake 551 years. It occupied an area of ​​about 23,000 sq.m. and consisted of a massive outer walls with towers and patrol the interior walls. Additional protection for the inhabitants of the fortress served as a moat.

As a building material used different fragments of the destroyed buildings of pre-Christian (though in those days it was common practice). Such fragments - head and torso of a Roman marble statue, known also as "Patrinella" have become part of local folklore, a kind of spirit-patron of the city. According to local legend "Patrinella" was a woman in a male form, and during the Ottoman rule to protect city from disease and cried when he died a noble citizen of Patras.

For centuries, Patras is considered an important strategic object and the "sea gate" of the Peloponnese. Not surprisingly, the castle has always been a certain interest for the conquerors. In the Byzantine era fortress repeatedly attacked the Slavs, Saracens, Normans, etc., but, nevertheless, never give up their positions, and having sustained serious siege in 805 year. In 1205, the fortress managed to capture Frank, who thoroughly fortified fort in accordance with the realities of his time. Subsequently, there are alternately dominated by the Venetians, Constantine Palaeologus, and finally, the Turks, the Greeks passed the castle only in 1828.

Since 1973, the castle is run by the 6th Inspectorate of Byzantine Antiquities and is an important historical and architectural monument. In summer, the fortress hosts a variety of cultural events. From the top of the castle walls offers stunning views of the city and the boundless sea.