Up on a large hill about 300 meters high from ground level. Angelokastro stands as a silent sentinel, bearing witness to centuries of history and change. This medieval fortress, with its origins rooted in the Byzantine era, has etched its legacy on the picturesque landscape of the Ionian Sea.
History
Angelokastro, also known as the “Angel Castle,” was initially built by the Byzantines. Its strategic location high up with a perfect view on Corfu Town and the Old Fort made for a very useful vantage point, allowing defenders to anticipate and repel attacks from both sides of the island. Later fortified by the Venetians, the fortress became a symbol of resistance against various invaders, earning a reputation as an almost impregnable bastion.
Legend has it that one time during a particularly intense Ottoman siege, the defenders of Angelokastro were on the verge of defeat. In a desperate moment, angels are said to have descended from the heavens, intervened in the battle, and thwarted the Ottoman forces. This divine intervention is believed by some to be the origin of the fortress’s name, Angelokastro, meaning “Castle of the Angel.”
Another local folklore, says Angelokastro is said to have a secret underground tunnel leading from the fortress to the coast. This tunnel supposedly allowed the inhabitants to escape in times of dire need or siege. While there is no concrete evidence of such a tunnel, the idea of a hidden passage adds an element of mystery and intrigue to the historical narrative of the fortress.
Legend of the ghost of a noblewoman, known as the Lady of Angelokastro, is said to wander the ruins of the fortress. The legend tells of a tragic love story between the lady and a Venetian soldier. When the soldier was called away to war and did not return, the lady, heartbroken and grief-stricken, is said to have taken her own life within the castle walls. Since then, her spirit is believed to roam the site, seeking her lost love. Some visitors claim to have experienced eerie encounters or felt a mysterious presence while exploring the castle, adding a hauntingly romantic dimension to its history.
The Whispering Winds: Local folklore speaks of the winds that sweep through the ruins of Angelokastro carrying the whispers of ancient warriors. It is said that these winds, infused with the voices of the past, convey messages from the soldiers who once defended the fortress. Visitors have reported hearing faint echoes and whispers as they wander through the remnants of the castle, as if the very air retains the stories of battles fought, victories celebrated, and the enduring spirit of those who called Angelokastro home.
Usages: Throughout its storied history, Angelokastro served as a crucial defensive stronghold. Its imposing walls and elevated position made it a formidable obstacle against marauding forces. Legend has it that the fortress was never successfully conquered by direct assault, solidifying its status as a guardian of Corfu. Over time, as the political and military landscape evolved, Angelokastro lost its strategic importance and was eventually abandoned.
Nowadays
Today, Angelokastro stands as a captivating ruin, offering visitors a journey through time. Exploring the remnants of this ancient fortress provides a glimpse into the island’s rich history and the architectural prowess of its builders. The site’s elevated position continues to offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking a connection with the past. It costs usually 3 euros to get in. You can buy tickets there.
While the fortress may no longer serve its original defensive purpose, the echoes of history resonate through the crumbling walls and weathered stones. Angelokastro remains a testament to the resilience of the people of Corfu and a living testament to the island’s enduring spirit.
In every stone and every gust of wind that sweeps through its ruins, Angelokastro whispers tales of a bygone era, inviting those who visit to become part of its continuing story. It is not merely a castle on a hill; it is a guardian of time, standing proudly against the backdrop of the ever-changing Ionian horizon.
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