Karababa Castle: A Sentinel Over Chalkida

Karababa Castle, also known as the Fortress of Karababa, stands on Phourka hill on the mainland coast near Chalkida, offering commanding views of the Evripos Strait. The site has ancient roots, possibly linked to the city of Kanethos, with some evidence of Roman-era fortification. However, the castle as it stands today was constructed in 1684 by the Ottomans to protect Chalkida from Venetian incursions.The castle's design, attributed to the Venetian Gerolimo Galopo, showcases a blend of European and Ottoman architectural styles. Its layout features an oblong enceinte oriented east-west, fortified with ramparts, three bastions, and a large tower. Ancient spolia are incorporated into the walls, and two 19th-century Russian cannons are still visible on the battlements. The castle's only gate is on the southeast side.Inside the castle, visitors can explore the Church of Prophet Elias, dating back to 1895, and a seven-sided tower accessible through a narrow, labyrinthine corridor. The castle also houses the Archaeological Collection of Karababa, with sculptures from the early Christian era to the 19th century. The site offers panoramic views of Chalkida and the surrounding area.