Gramvousa Castle

The Gramvousa Castle was constructed on a precipitous hill on the islet of Imeri Gramvousa, located at the extremity of the peninsula bearing the same name. Its purpose was to safeguard the small natural harbour in the region, as part of a broader fortification strategy for Crete during the concluding years of the Venetian rule.

Construction of the fortress commenced in 1584 according to the designs and oversight of Latino Orsini. 

Within the fortress grounds, there are two substantial vaulted cisterns designed to capture rainwater from the cobblestone surface. Among the remaining structures, the Church of the Annunciation and the converted powder magazine still stand, while the foundations of barracks, the headquarters, and other facilities can be observed. The fortress walls were predominantly constructed using local limestone, with the cordone, a distinctive element, crafted from carved sandstone.

Photo 1: By @nick.haji

Photos 2-4: Discoverkissamos Via Instagram