Bourtzi Castle (Greece)
Peloponnese See list of castles in Grecia
The small island of Bourtzi in Nafplion is famous for its strong and impressive fortress. Still known by his name turkish Bourtzi, ie the Tower, which attracts many visitors throughout the year. Antonio Gambello, an architect from Bergamo, built the castle in 1471 on this tiny island in front of the port of Nafplion, although the construction was completed by Brancaleone technician.
The design is specially made to fit the narrow shape of the island. The entire city was fortified by the Venetians in 1473, primarily to provide protection against pirates. The castle, with north and south entrances, has three floors connected by escalators. A small port on the north-eastern side has offered an easy and safe access between the sea and the fort. To get protected from their enemies, the Turks had expected the bottom of the surrounding sea with a large barricade of stones that made it impossible for large ships to approach the island and the fort.
Later, after the deliberation of the country in 1821, it was transformed into a residence of the Executioner for the inmates of the Palamidi castle. Between 1930 and 1970, after alterations by the German architect Wolf Schaeffer, the Bourtzi has been used as a hotel. Today the island is home to the Summer Music Festival, offering a beautiful setting well at the gala of music. It 'easy to reach by boat from the port of Nafplion, and is a must for visitors to this beautiful city.