Palaiokastro Fortress: A Venetian Stronghold

Palaiokastro, meaning 'Old Castle,' is a coastal village near Gazi, Crete, known for its Venetian fortress. The fortress, whose ruins still stand, is located 9 km west of Heraklion. The fort was built on a high rock, near the modern Heraklion - Chania highway.Originally built in 1204 by the Genoese pirate Enrico Pescatore after he conquered Crete, the fort was one of 14 built to protect the island. Palaiokastro specifically guarded the bay of Heraklion, making enemy landings difficult. The Venetians, recognizing its strategic importance after they took control of Crete, maintained control over it. Construction of the Palaiokastro fortress begun in 1573, was completed in 1595 and was based on a design prepared based instruction Commander Latino Orsini. The fort has triangular shape adopted by the natural topography of the location and the steepness of the rock was met with the overshoot of the walls that were parallel to the sea. The arched entrance, partially carved into the rock, is located on the south side.Today, visitors can explore the remaining walls of the triangular fort and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. The beach below offers clear waters and is suitable for snorkeling.