|
|
Rethymno
Crete island
|
The
Fortetza Fortress
This
fortress was built from 1573 till 1580 by the Venetians, for the protection
of the inhabitants by the Turkish threat. It is starshaped with three gates
and six bastions. In the middle, the church of St Nicolo, was turned into
the Mosque of the Sultan Ibrahim Han. There were the Commander' s house,
the Counsellor' s house, barracks, stables, ammunition - storehouses, a
cistern and houses which were later destroyed. There was no systematic
excavation on the site. From time to time, there were some excavatory attempts,
when the actual buildings were being repaired.
Some
years earlier, the 13th Ephorate of Byzantine Antiquities effectuated works
of restoration and consolidation. The architect D. Pikiones had completed
a study concerning a new project of the fortezza: a theatre for representations
of the medieval cretan plays, tourist accomodations etc. Today the Municipality
of Rethymnon in collaboration with the competent services, suggests a restoration
study which will bring the monument to its full advantage.
The
most important monuments and architectural complexes are:
-
The Counsellors'
residence.
-
The Rector'
s residence.
-
Gunpownder-shorehouses.
-
Ammunition-storehouse.
-
Possible
Bishop' s Mansion
|
|
|
