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Kefalonia Assoss Castle


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The Assos Castle is one of the places worth visiting when you come to Kefalonia. Flights to Kefalonia can be taken from any major international airport and land at the Kefalonia airport, about 9 km from the islands capital, Argostoli.

The Castle located in Assos was constructed in the 16th century. Venetians were its architects and the aim to build this castle was to provide the village with ample security, as the region used to be constantly attacked by pirates. Fortifications were of great strength and height. Thats the reason why the entire village was protected from pirate attacks. Today, however if you visit the Assos Castle you will find very little of the Castle.

Some locations of the castle have been recovered and preserved to an extent such as a couple of regions near the walls. You will also be able to have a look at an arched gate which was one of the entrance gates of the time. The way the castle was built is quite astonishing considering the workforce it may have used up.

The remaining locations have amazing style of Venetian fortification. The entrance gates even have the Venetian Lion. Overall there were 4 such entrance gates but 2 of them have given way to time. Two gates, larger among the 4 gates, still stand strong and can be located easily within the Castle.

There is a Venetian Prison that is characterized by a domed construction, several small windows and a door. This was where convicts were placed by the rulers. Today what remains of the prison is a yard and a couple of cells that are intact at the centre point within the fortress.

The Germans had used the prison during the Second World War since this was considered to be one of the best prisons around with no scope for escape of the convicts. You might find some ruins from the barracks belonging to the army. There was a church close by called The French Church.

Inside the walls of the castle are the ruins of the church called Agios Markos. This church is situated towards the left of the Castle gates. This is a catholic church that dates back to 1604. This is considered to be a church that has still managed to survive among other churches such as churches of St Maria and St John. Another insignificant looking church was also present in the Castle called the Mother Mary Spitaliona. The church is still being recovered. Similarly, the church of Prophet Illias constructed in 1888 is another great structure built using some amazing frescos.

The castle also had a tower with a bell but it was destroyed in 1953. The village of Assos can also be visited as you will find some serene spots to spend some quiet time along the sea and the Assos peninsula.

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