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Rio Fortress: A Corinthian Gulf Guardian

Explore the Rio Fortress, a historic guardian of the Corinthian Gulf with centuries of captivating stories and cultural significance.

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The Rio Fortress, also known as Castelli of Moria, stands at the entrance of the Corinthian Gulf in Rio, Greece. Built in 1499 by Ottoman Sultan Bayazid II, it has a rich history, having been controlled by various powers including the Spanish and Venetians, and played a role in WWII. Today, it hosts cultural events and welcomes tourists.

A brief summary to Rio Fortress

  • Ρίο, 265 04, GR

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary between seasons.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the fortress grounds.
  • Visit during a cultural event or concert for a unique experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Patras, take the local bus to Rio. Buses frequently operate from Patras to Rio. Once in Rio, the fortress is a short walk from the bus stop, near the Rio-Antirrio Bridge. A single bus fare from Patras to Rio costs approximately €1.50 - €2.00.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Patras and can take you directly to the Rio Fortress. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The approximate cost is €15-€20.

  • Walking

    If you are arriving by ferry from Antirrio, the Rio Fortress is a short walk from the ferry terminal. Follow the coastal road towards the Rio-Antirrio Bridge; the fortress will be on your left. There are no costs associated with walking.

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Discover more about Rio Fortress

The Rio Fortress, or Castelli of Moria, is a historic landmark located in Rio, Achaea, Greece, guarding the entrance to the Corinthian Gulf. Constructed in 1499 by Ottoman Sultan Bayazid II on the ruins of an ancient temple of Poseidon, its purpose was to control passage and protect Ottoman interests in the region. The fortress, along with its counterpart in Antirrio, was known as the "Little Dardanelles". Throughout its history, the fortress has been under the control of various powers. The Spanish and Andrea Doria briefly captured it in 1532 before the Turks reclaimed it. The Knights of Malta caused significant damage in 1603. In 1687, Francesco Morosini and the Venetians took over, adding new bastions and towers. The Turks seized it again in 1715, holding it until General Maison's siege in 1828 during the Greek Revolution. The fortress features an isosceles triangle shape with coastal sides and a moat filled with seawater for defense. There are two main gates: a sea gate and a central gate facing inland. Used as a prison for a long time and later occupied by the Germans during World War II, the fortress has witnessed many historical events. Today, the Fortress of Rio serves as a venue for cultural events, particularly concerts, and is a significant tourist attraction.

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