New Venetian Fortress — Attraction in Municipality of Central Corfu and Diapontia Islands

SCARPON is the horn-shaped fort (opera a corno) that reinforced the western bastion front of the New Fortress (Seven Winds bastions). Its construction, although not originally planned by Ferrante Vitelli, was decided while the walling of the town was underway and was completed in 1587. The name is derived from the term scarps, which means oblique wall. The fort consists of two semi-bastions which are connected with a curtain wall (coalna). Two facing low squares (piazze basse) protect its moat (today Vlaikou Street), from which survives the largest section of the contrascarpa, namely the wall that defined its external side. A thick network of galleries allowed access from the fort to its moat, as well as to the moat of the New Fortress. On the southern semi-bastion is embossed the winged lion of Venice and a now barely legible inscription of 1587, while a second analogous composition on the cortina that connects the semi-bastions commemorates the reconstruction of the fort in 1728. Finally, on the contrascarpa of the moat is found in bas relief a lion holding the coat of arms of the fleet Commander Giorgio Grimani (1728). [tourist...

The New Venetian Fortress (Νέο Φρούριο) in Corfu is an impressive 16th-century military structure that dominates the city’s skyline. Despite its name, it is over 400 years old and was built by the Venetians between 1576 and 1588 to strengthen Corfu’s defenses against Ottoman attacks. It complements the Old Venetian Fortress, creating a formidable defense system for the island.

Key Features: Architecture & Design – The fortress is a masterpiece of Venetian military engineering, featuring thick stone walls, underground tunnels, and strategic vantage points. It was later modified by the British in the 19th century. Stunning Views – Climbing to the top rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of Corfu Town, the Ionian Sea, and the surrounding landscape. History & Exhibitions – While exploring the fortress, you can see old cannons, tunnels, and historical exhibits related to Corfu’s military past. Cultural Events – The fortress occasionally hosts concerts, art exhibitions, and cultural events, adding to its...

Visited today in July heat and the views were beautiful! It is about an 8 minute walk to the top, up some inclines but not bad if you go in the morning to avoid afternoon heat. I think you visit the fortress more for the views of the old town and the sea than you do for the actual fortress itself as alot of the fortress is closed off but the views from it are the best part. You can go inside some of the rooms in the fortress which is interesting and it’s nice to be able to wonder around as it is cooler inside compared to the heat outside. If you do go, be careful on the way back down as the slopes can be quite slippery. Kids go free and it was €5 per adult. 100% worth it if you are planning to visit here; it’s the best views of the town and the nearby...