New fortress Photo: the New fortress

The new fortress of Corfu town, also known as Neo Frourio, is located on the hill of St. Mark near the old town Harbor and protects the city from the West. This construction is somewhat less of an Old fortress, but is considered more interesting from an architectural point of view.

The construction of the fortress began in 1576 by the Venetians, when it became clear that the Old fortress is not enough for a full defense of the city. The design and construction of fortifications was engaged in Venetian architect Francesco Vitelli. For the construction of the fortress (to collect building material) was destroyed over 2000 buildings. Completed the main construction was only in 1645. Later additions have been made by the French and the British.

The new fortress is a two-level structure. The main function of the lower level was to protect the port. The upper level is intended for the defense of the city. The fortress consists of two massive bastions twins, which stands majestically above the port. Two of the main gate of the fortress is well preserved to our days. They are decorated with the symbol of Venice – the winged lion of St. Mark. Preserved underground tunnels that link the new with the old fortress and the city, but they are closed to the public. One side of the fortress surrounded by a waterless moat. The fortress was badly damaged during the bombing during the Second world war but was later restored.

Two urban fortresses were previously connected by walls that were destroyed during the unification of the island of Corfu and Greece.

Officially this magnificent ancient structure is called "the Fortress of Saint Mark", but most often it is called simply "the New fortress". Today it is open daily to the public, and you can take a short tour through the maze of medieval corridors and defensive structures. From the top of the fortress you can admire beautiful panoramic views. After the restoration there are exhibitions of painting, photography, sculpture, musical concerts and other cultural events. There is also a small cafe.

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