City · Monument
The Castle of Arta
A fortress of the Despotate of Epirus with Ottoman additions, and views of the city and the valley.
The Castle of Arta was built by the Despots of Epirus in the 13th century on the remains of an ancient fort. Michael I Komnenos Doukas began the fortifications in the early part of the century, but their present form is largely post-Byzantine, with Ottoman additions visible in the walls.
A clock tower stands in front of the castle. From the ramparts you see the city and the valley of the Arachthos.
Arta of the Despots
In 1205 Michael I Komnenos Doukas founded the Despotate of Epirus, and Arta was its capital for most of its history. The castle is one of the monuments that recall this era, together with the city's Byzantine churches.
Planning your visit
- Check opening hours and access before you go; some spaces inside the castle change use.
- Climb up while the city is quiet to enjoy the view.
See also
Photo credits
All photos are from Wikimedia Commons under the licences shown.
- The Castle of Arta with its clock tower: Vassiliki Feidopoulou, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons