Bourtzi Castle

This striking fortress of Bourtzi Castle is located just offshore from the historic town of Nafplio. Sitting alone in the harbor against the backdrop of mountains and sea, the fortress appears to float upon the water.

Bourtzi was originally built by the Venetians in the 15th century to help protect the harbor entrance from invading ships. Throughout its history, the fortress served many purposes such as a military stronghold, defensive tower, residence for executioners, prison and even a hotel for a period of time. The structure reflects centuries of changing control between Venetians, Ottomans and Greeks.

For a time, the fortress became associated with the executioners who carried out public executions of the nearby Palamidi Fortress prison. Because the executioners became socially isolated and rejected by the townspeople, they and their families were made to live on Bourtzi, separated from the rest of the community. The image of families living alone of this small island fortress gives the site an even more haunting dimension.

Before Athens became the capital of modern Greece, Nafplio briefly served as the first capital of the newly independent Greek state in the early 19th century after the Greek War of Independence.

History is embedded into the landscape of Greece. Ancient ruins, castles, temples, harbors and mountains are never far apart. Even a quiet harbor scene like this carry layers of conflict, trade and conquest stretching back centuries.