• Location15 km from Heraklion on the national road to Chania
• Historical SignificanceVenetian fortress built in 1573 to protect the Gulf of Heraklion and Ammoudara
• Fortress StructureThree levels with gunpowder storage, rainwater tank, barracks, and a church
• Architectural FeaturesEntrance carved into the rock, winged lion of Saint Mark
• Current StateParts of the fortress walls remain, with impressive natural scenery
• Archaeological SignificanceLikely built on the remains of the ancient acropolis of the city of Kytaium

On the eastern side of Palaiokastro beach, atop a striking tall rock that juts into the sea and borders the Heraklion-Chania national road at the 15th km mark, lies the historic Venetian fortress of Palaiokastro. This important fortress, built in 1573 by the Venetians, was constructed to reinforce the defense of the area, guarding the Gulf of Heraklion and Ammoudara, along with the Koules Fortress.

The Palaiokastro fortress is structured on three levels. The first level housed the gunpowder storage rooms and a rainwater collection tank, vital for the survival of the garrison. The second level contained the barracks where soldiers were stationed, while the third level featured the fortress’s church, offering a rare view over the sea and surrounding mountains.

On the southern side of the fortress lies the main entrance, carved into the rock, which remains one of the most impressive architectural features. On the northeastern side, the winged lion of Saint Mark, a symbol of Venetian power, can still be seen.

Today, parts of the fortress walls still stand, allowing visitors to imagine its former glory. It is believed that the fortress was built on the remains of the ancient acropolis of the city of Kytaium, adding an additional layer of archaeological significance to the site.