the venetian fortezza

The fortress is an amazing place to visit full of history and providing wonderful views. If you like history, as I do, this is definitely worth a visit. Lovely views of Rethymnon & surrounding area, overlooks the sea. (cacher dream)

The fortress is an amazing place to visit full of history and providing wonderful views. However, something like this needs to be maintained and I am afraid that in ears to come there will be nothing to see as it badly needs some TLC. Nevertheless it is worth the visit.

Historical place left to decay. Health and safety nitemare. Crumbling castle with very little or no support to restore. Cheap to get in

We got a good nights sleep and got up in the morning ready to explore! We stayed walking distance from the Fortezza of Rethymnon, the Venetian-era citadel. Construction began in the 1570’s after the fall of Cyprus. The Ottomans conquered the fortress less than 100 years later and it remained in use through the 20th century. Now the fortress is undergoing restoration.There was also a museum that had some very impressive artifacts and art. There were many items that have never been photographed or published. It was strange to go to such a little hole in the wall museum and see such impressive ancient artifacts from the Minoan time.

This Venetian-era (built in late 1500) fortress is almost in the center of the Old town and can be reached from the harbour along the coast or through the alleys of the Old town; I suggest using one route to go and one to come back.While large scale restoration began about 20 years ago, there is still much to be done. The lack of sufficient information boards for the different structures (mosque, church, residences, theatre etc) is an indication of the job ahead.The site is huge, the entrance fee is low (4 euros) and the place is great for wandering around and take in the stunning panoramic views of the sea, the city and its surroundings.Definitely a must see while in Rthymnon.

This is an interesting place to wander around and imagine what life was like many years ago. You have to imagine because there is a lack of any information about the Fortezza displayed - there are one or two information boards about certain parts, but overall they haven't made much effort to bring history alive and explain the point of the place. I also noticed a number of old cannons abandoned on the floor outside one of the buildings.There are good views across Rethymno and the surrounding area which are worth the entry fee alone. Toilets are an extra €0.50 per person. Parking is free at the nearby bus station.In summary, worth visiting, but could be so much better with a little effort.

If you like history, as I do, this is definitely worth a visit. A bit of a trek but the views are stunning. Would recommend to anyone.

Lovely views of Rethymnon & surrounding area, overlooks the sea. Covers a large open area & is interesting to see but not much of the original structures remain standing within the walls.

Spectacular views and interesting history: the archaeologist in me would have liked more interpretation boards.

A huge and very interesting fortress overlooking the sea. Theres lots to see. The views are great. Not too pricey to get in either just 4 euros each. A must visit it you are in Rethymno and interested in historical places.

Fantastic history and views over the surrounding area. Needs more signage tho to tell you what you are looking at.

On our first day we decided to take a walk and get our bearings so we headed for the Fortress. Thoroughly enjoyed walking around this large historic area, taking in the beautiful views and experiencing the feel of this ancient site which has been carefully restored and has helpful information provided about the mosque, church, magazine and other interesting areas.

We spent a couple of hours wandering around the fortezza and it was much larger than we thought with a lot to see. There are great views of the town and coastline from the walls. It was good value at 4 euros or 3 euros if you are 65+. Well worth a visit.

Realy nice and exciting visit, one of the most beautiful building ever seen... it is very big venezian fortezza with unbeliveble see view. You can buy there a small drinks, souvenirs and buy and send post card too. Just plan to go there in the mornong or evning cause it is very warm during the day...

Very good value at only 4€ entry fee and panoramic views in all directions. A mosque and church stand side by side on this imposing site. It is easily accessible and well worth a visit.