Rethymno is one of Crete’s best destinations, known for its history, beautiful beaches, and old town, there are many things to do in Rethymno. At the heart of the city, you will find the Fortezza of Rethymno. This is an eye-catching Venetian fortress that has watched over Rethymno for centuries.
In this guide, we will explore the history of the Fortezza, and share what to see inside, the best spots for views, practical tips for visiting, and nearby attractions to explore during your trip to Crete.
The history of Fortezza of Rethymno
The Fortezza of Rethymno dates back to 1573 when the Venetians built it to defend the city from Ottoman invasions and pirate attacks. After a brutal raid by the Turks in 1571, the Venetians chose Paleokastro Hill to build a strong fortress. This location was chosen on purpose as it provided good views of both the city and the sea.
The Fortezza of Rethymno was built in the Venetian military style, with a thick wall and a narrow gate to help defend against enemy armies. Despite being a strong fortress, it was unable to protect the city against the Ottoman siege of 1646. It was then that Rethymno fell under Ottoman control and the fortress was transformed. For example, the Ottomans turned parts of the fortress, including the church into the Mosque of Sultan Ibrahim, which you can still visit today. Over time, the Fortezza turned into military barracks and, during World War II, was a shelter for locals during bombings.
Currently, restoration projects have helped to preserve much of the site’s original structure.
What to see inside the Fortress of Rethymno
The Fortress itself is a sight to see from afar, but, once you enter, there are many sections to visit. Here are our top picks of places to see within the fortress.
Main Gate and Defensive Walls
When you enter the Fortezza of Rethymno, the main gate is the first thing you will see. Built by the Venetians, this massive entrance was designed to intimidate invaders and protect the city. Made from thick stone walls, reinforced with four bastions at each corner you can still walk along parts of these defensive walls. The views of Rethymno Old Town and the sea are stunning from this point.
Mosque of Sultan Ibrahim
As you move along the fortress, you will come across the Mosque of Sultan Ibrahim. It was originally built as a Christian church but was later converted into a mosque after the Ottomans captured the city. Today, the large dome and arch entrance are well preserved and remain intact.
Bastions and Guardhouses
The fortress’s bastions and guardhouses give you a deeper look into the military force of the structure. The bastion was positioned to give soldiers a 360-degree view of the area. Today, this is the ideal spot for the best panoramic views and photos of the city and sea.
Theatre of Erofili
A surprise within the fortress is the Theatre of Erofili. This is an open-air theatre built in the late 1980s as part of efforts to revive the fortress. Today, many concerts, plays, and performances take place here, including the annual Renaissance Festival of Rethymno.
Chapel of Agios Theodoros and Venetian Ruins
Among the ruins, you will find the small Chapel of Agios Theodoros. Nearby, you can also explore the remains of Venetian houses and administrative buildings.
Throughout the Fortezza, there are plenty of informational panels that provide context and historical details. These signs are written in multiple languages to help you understand the significance of each structure and location you are visiting.
The best views and photo spots
The Fortezza of Rethymno is the best spot to discover Rethymno, the Venetian Harbour, and the sea from afar. Especially at sunset, it makes for the best photo location in the city. Our tip is to head to the bastions facing the sea for the perfect picture opportunity! We recommend visiting in the late afternoon for the best golden hour light.
How to get there and opening hours
The Fortezza of Rethymno is located on top of Paleokastro Hill and is only a 10-15 minute walk from Rethymno Old Town. You can easily get there by well-marked footpaths and roads, but for the most scenic route, we suggest taking the old streets and following signs leading uphill to the fortress. Be aware, that if you prefer to drive, there is limited parking, therefore, walking is often the best option, especially during the busy summer months.
Opening hours vary depending on the time of year. However, the fortress is typically open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm from April to October, and 8:00 am to 3:00 pm from November to March. Please keep in mind that the site may close on major holidays, so we suggest you check ahead before planning your visit.
Tickets cost around 4€ for adults, with discounted rates for children, students, and seniors. Finally, remember to wear comfortable walking shoes, as there is uneven terrain and steps. Keep in mind that strollers and wheelchairs might be challenging to navigate here.
Nearby attractions in Rethymno
There is so much sightseeing in Rethymno that you must do. After a visit to the fortress, make sure to stroll through Rethymno Old Town to explore the Venetian and Ottoman architecture. Stop by the Rimondi Fountain, Venetian Harbour and Lighthouse for a seaside walk. Located a few steps from the fortress, is the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, where you can learn about Minoan, Roman, and Venetian history.
Why visit Fortezza of Rethymno?
The Fortezza of Rethymno is the best way to journey through Crete’s rich past while taking in stunning views over the city and sea. From history lovers to seekers of amazing Instagram photos, visiting the Fortezza of Rethymno cannot be missed.
When planning your trip to Crete, make sure to count on Oreo Travel to help you find the perfect accommodation and experiences near the Fortezza of Rethymno. Book your stay today.