Angelokastro fortress

The fortress of Angelokastro or "Angel's Castle" is one of the most important architectural monuments of the Byzantine era in Greece. It is situated on the highest peak of the coastline of Corfu island in its northwestern part, not far from Paleokastritsa. The impregnable fortress, which is a well-fortified acropolis, was one of the most important strategic fortifications of Byzantine Corfu and has played an important role in the life of the island for many centuries. In peacetime it was also a center of trade.

The most powerful fortification was built at the beginning of the 13th century during the period of the Despot of Epirus. It is most likely that the founder of Angelokastro was Michael I Comnenus Duca (founder of the Kingdom of Epirus), also called Michael the Angel, although it may have been his son Michael II Comnenus Duca. Today the fortress is open to the public, but restoration and archaeological work is still in progress. A small church dedicated to the Archangel Michael and the chapel of St. Kyriaki, which has preserved frescoes from the 18th century, have been preserved here to this day. From the top of the fortress you can enjoy great panoramic views.