Description of the attraction
The Angelokastro Fortress, or "Castle of the Angel", is one of the most important architectural monuments of the Byzantine era in Greece. It is located on the highest peak of the coastline of Corfu in its northwestern part, not far from Paleokastritsa. The impregnable fortress, which is a well fortified Acropolis, was one of the most important strategic fortifications of Byzantine Corfu and played an important role in the life of the island for many centuries. In times of peace, it was also the center of trade.
The most powerful fortification was built at the beginning of the 13th century during the period of the Epirus despot. Most likely, the founder of Angelokastro was Michael I Komnenos Duca (founder of the Epirus kingdom), also referred to as Michael the Angel, although it may have been his son, Michael II Komnenos Duca.
In 1267, the fortress was captured by the Angevins. The manuscript that confirms this is the oldest written source on the history of Angelokastro. In 1386, the castle passed into the ownership of the Venetian Republic, which was at that time a powerful maritime power, and was used to control the sea routes in the southern Adriatic and Ionian Sea. In 1403, Genoese pirates tried to seize the castle, but were repelled. Withstood the fortress with success and the siege of the Turks in 1571. It was one of many attempts by the Ottoman Empire to seize the island of Corfu, which they never submitted.
Today the fortress is open to the public, but restoration and archaeological work is still underway. A small church dedicated to the Archangel Michael, and the chapel of St. Kiriyaki, in which frescoes from the 18th century have survived, have survived to this day. Stunning panoramic views open from the top of the fortress.
