Itzedin Fortress
An abandoned Ottoman fortress and former political prison offering dramatic sea views and a poignant historical atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Rare public access days
Itzedin Fortress
Best Time
Rare public access days
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An abandoned Ottoman fortress and former political prison offering dramatic sea views and a poignant historical atmosphere.
"Disappointing, overgrown and inaccessible. Lovely views all around and ok if you like looking at walls and rubbish."
Check Access Before You Go
Confirm opening status as it's often closed and under military control. Access is very limited.
Manage Expectations
It's an abandoned site. Enjoy the views and history, not pristine facilities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Sea Views
Rooftops and outer walls
Breathtaking vistas of the sea and surrounding coastline, offering a dramatic backdrop to the fortress.
Historic Ottoman Architecture
Fortress grounds
Explore the remnants of an old Ottoman fortress, built in 1872, with a palpable sense of history.
Abandoned Prison Atmosphere
Former prison cells
Experience the eerie and poignant atmosphere of a former political prison, a stark reminder of its past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Opening Times
Condition & Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Access Before You Go
Confirm opening status as it's often closed and under military control. Access is very limited.
Manage Expectations
It's an abandoned site. Enjoy the views and history, not pristine facilities.
Respect Military Presence
Be aware of military control and follow any instructions given by personnel.
Embrace the Scenery
The stunning coastal views are a major draw, even if the fortress itself is derelict.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Access Before You Go
Confirm opening status as it's often closed and under military control. Access is very limited.
Manage Expectations
It's an abandoned site. Enjoy the views and history, not pristine facilities.
Respect Military Presence
Be aware of military control and follow any instructions given by personnel.
Embrace the Scenery
The stunning coastal views are a major draw, even if the fortress itself is derelict.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Itzedin Fortress is a historically significant site, appreciated for its stunning sea views and atmospheric ruins. However, access is extremely limited due to military control, and the fortress is largely abandoned and overgrown, which can be disappointing for those expecting a well-maintained attraction.
"I went here according to the review but the place was closed and under military control."
Bilel Trabelsi
"Unfortunately, it is not open to public :("
theocharis stivaktakis
"I would like to inform all of you that Intzedin Prison is not accessible for all except for these who is on duty of Greek Navy. As of my service in Navy I had the choice to see closer all the places. A lot of them are very abandoned and you have to be very carefull. The only days that Prison is open is at 14 and 15 of December days that are dedicated to Saint Eleutherios in Greek Orthodox Religion and is celebrated in the small church that the prisoners were built to feel that one day will be again free."
Manos Roumanis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Itzedin Fortress is located on a small islet connected by a causeway. Access is highly restricted and it's primarily used by the Greek Navy. Public access is extremely rare, usually only on December 14th and 15th for religious celebrations.
Generally, no. Itzedin Fortress is not open to the public except on very specific occasions, such as the feast days of Saint Eleutherios on December 14th and 15th.
Unfortunately, normal visits are not possible as the fortress is under military control and not accessible to civilians.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Since public access is so limited, there are no standard ticket sales. Entry is only permitted on the rare open days, and it's advisable to check local information for any specific entry requirements.
The fortress is not open on a regular schedule. The only known times for public access are December 14th and 15th, dedicated to Saint Eleutherios.
As it's not a standard tourist attraction, there isn't a set entrance fee. If access is granted on special days, there might be a nominal fee or it could be free.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The fortress is largely abandoned, overgrown, and in a state of disrepair. Visitors should expect to see old walls, remnants of buildings, and some rubbish.
You can explore the historic Ottoman architecture, the former prison cells, and enjoy the amazing scenery and panoramic views of the sea and coastline.
Given its abandoned state, caution is advised. Be mindful of uneven surfaces and decaying structures.
No, as it is an abandoned and largely inaccessible site, there are no visitor facilities like restrooms or cafes.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the dramatic coastal scenery and the atmospheric ruins of the fortress make it a compelling subject for photography, especially during golden hour.
The outer walls and any accessible vantage points offer stunning sea views. The architectural details of the old fortress also provide great photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Enthusiasts
Plan your visit around the rare open days, typically December 14th and 15th, to get a glimpse of this unique historical site. The views alone are worth the effort for photographers and history buffs alike.
Photographers
Aim for golden hour to enhance the mood and lighting. While access is difficult, the visual rewards for patient photographers are significant. The raw, untamed nature of the site adds to its photographic appeal, offering a stark contrast to more manicured locations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The fortress's transformation into a prison adds a layer of poignant history. The remnants of the prison cells evoke a sense of the past, and the small church built by prisoners signifies a deep human desire for freedom and faith. This dual identity as both a defensive structure and a place of confinement makes Itzedin Fortress a site of significant historical interest.
While the fortress is now abandoned and overgrown, its historical significance remains. It stands as a silent witness to various eras, from Ottoman rule to its use as a correctional facility. The stories held within its walls continue to resonate, offering a unique perspective on the region's past.
Navigating Access and Expectations
It's crucial to manage expectations before attempting a visit. The fortress is described as abandoned, overgrown, and in a state of disrepair. While the views are consistently praised as amazing, the structures themselves are derelict, with walls and rubbish being prominent features.
For those who manage to gain access, the experience is often described as atmospheric and visually striking. The combination of historical ruins and the expansive sea views creates a unique, albeit somber, environment. It's a destination for those interested in history and dramatic landscapes, rather than conventional tourist amenities.
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