The Venetian Fortezza, Rethymnon

A relic of the Venetian occupation of Rethymon, The Venetian Fortezza stands in the center of town, offering 360-degree views of the coast below. In 1580, more than 107,00 Cretans were forced to help build the fort to protect the Venetians' last overseas colony. Unfortunately, several flaws, such as the lack of buttresses and a ditch, made the walls easy to scale without a ladder. In 1646, the Ottomans seized the fortress and settled the area inside. Many of the interior buildings have been destroyed, but the exterior fortifications remain intact. Using our online itinerary creator, Rethymnon attractions like The Venetian Fortezza can form part of a personalized travel itinerary.