About The New Fortress

Started in 1577 and completed in 1588, the New Fortress was built on the Hill of St. Mark and is on two levels. The lower was to protect the port and the upper to protect the city. As a Naval look out point and protected by a deep moat, the New Fortress was instrumental in protecting Western Europe from Turkish invasion. There are tunnels that link the Old and New Fortresses, but are not open to the public. The gates of the New Fortress are decorated with a carving of the Lion of St. Mark, the emblem of Venice. Recently restored, the New Fortress is a venue for concerts and exhibitions as well as housing the Corfu Naval Station.