Sfakia Fortress

Sfakia Fortress

  • LocationNorth of the Sfakia settlement
  • HistoryBuilt in the 15th-16th century by the Venetians
  • DestructionDestroyed by the Sfakians after a conflict with the Venetians and later by the Ottomans
  • RuinsOnly a few remnants of the fortress stand today

The fortress of Sfakia, also known as "Castel di Sfacia," is an iconic part of Cretan history, built by the Venetians in the 15th-16th century. It is located on the hill of Kastelli, on the northern side of the village, surrounded by a small pine forest, offering stunning views and a unique atmosphere.

The fortress is closely tied to the story of "Chrysomallousa" (the Golden-Haired Maiden). According to local tradition, a Venetian knight, captivated by the beauty of Chrysi Skordyli, approached and kissed her. Outraged, she slapped him, and in response, the knight cut off her hair with his sword. This incident sparked a conflict between the Sfakians and the Venetians, leading to the destruction of the fortress.

When the Ottomans arrived, they attempted to restore and rebuild the fortress, but the defiant Sfakians destroyed it repeatedly. As a result, only ruins remain today.