FORTRESS NERANTZIA

This imposing fortress was built by the Knights of St. John in the ^14th century, then reinforced by a double wall in the ^16th century to counter the Ottomans. Unfortunately, the 2017 earthquake damaged it, but renovations were carried out in 2023, outside the summer season. At the time of writing, it was not certain that these renovations would be completed in time for a normal reopening in the 2024 season: let's hope that the damage caused by the earthquake is finally repaired and that we can once again visit this exceptional heritage site, minus the scaffolding! The name of the fortress, Nerantzia, refers to the bitter oranges that grew in the surrounding area. To build it, the Knights drew extensively on the ruins of the ancient city and the nearby Asclepieion, an ancient sanctuary. You'll see elements of this (carved marble, remains of statuary and antique columns) throughout the walls. Originally, the castle was separated from the town by an arm of the sea that acted as a protective moat: a bridge over 30 metres long linked the land to the entrance to the fortifications. This is still used today to enter the fortifications, but the inlet has been drained and the bridge now spans the road. The trees surrounding this structure provide welcome shade, which is sorely lacking during the day. The fortress offers magnificent views of the sea and the town.