Venetian Fortezza Castle: A Guide to the Archaeological Site

While the Venetian Fortezza Castle was built in the late 16th century, the historical use of the Paleokastro Hill goes back much further. In fact, the name Paleokastro itself suggests that the hilltop was once the site of the Acropolis of Ancient Rithymna.

Unfortunately, while Rithymna served as a major population centre on Crete throughout ancient times, the city largely fell from prominence in the 3rd century CE, only to once again rise into an important strategic position on the island a millennium later, with the Byzantines establishing a fortified settlement on the eastern slopes of the hill of Paleokastro in the 13th century.

This early fortified settlement was known as Castrum Rethemi and boasted square towers and two gates. However, Byzantine rule in the region was short-lived, and the fortifications were soon conquered by the Venetians, who maintained control over Crete for the following four centuries.

During this time, Rethymno continued to grow in prominence, developing a small harbour and becoming the third most important city on Crete beyond Heraklion and Chania. 

However, despite defensive efforts in the first half of the 16th century, the city was overrun by an Ottoman assault in 1571. Following the sacking of the city, The Venetians decided they needed to construct a new set of fortifications to protect themselves from further assaults.