While planning for our September 2022 trip to Corfu, Greece I came upon photos of Angelokastro and knew I would be climbing to the top of this fortress. I imagined the views would be spectacular and was excited about exploring a centuries old fortress. Angelokastro proved not too disappoint me and is one of the many gems of Corfu, Greece.
Location
Angelokastro is located on the North western shore of Corfu, Greece. The drive there is pleasant, although as we discovered in all of Corfu the roads are narrow and often wind up and down. We were staying at Delfino Blu in Agios Stefanos, NW. Although only about 12 miles, (19.1 km) from Angelokastro, the drive took about 45 minutes South. If you are coming from Corfu Town it is about 17 miles or 28 km and also takes about 45 minutes.
History of Angelokastro
Angelokastro is a Byzantine Castle with a questionable date of construction. It is thought to have been possibly fortified in the 5th to 6th century AD and likely to have been a force to be reckoned with by the 11th and 12th century. It’s location on the highest peak of the shoreline overlooking the sea was perfect for defending the area for as far as you could see, for miles. The rough rocky cliff would be no easy feat to scale, especially undetected.
By 1272 Angelokastro was owned by the Angevins of Naples and there is documented proof of this. In 1386, the Venetians occupied the area until 1797. During this time the castle was owned by the Most Serene Republic of Venice. The castle never fell to pirates nor to three sieges from the Ottomans. It was during this time that the castle was considered a refuge and offered great protection to the people of the area. After this period, Angelokastro gradually fell to ruin and towards the end of the 18th century was no longer used. Restoration of this magnificent site began in 1999.
Climbing Up
The climb up to the top of Angelokastro is no walk in the park but it is pretty. The pathway is stone and the steps are uneven. Make sure you watch your step.
Arched Entry
The arched entry adds a bit of excitement as you approach and walk through it. I couldn’t help but think of the people of the countryside seeking safety behind this gate centuries ago. There are actually two entryways close to each other both towards the top of the castle.
Circular Tower
The Circular Tower overlooks not just the countryside and the sea but the main gate as well. This offers protection against those who may try to enter the gate.
Aghia Kyriaki Chapel
Inside the walls you will find a few structures remaining. One of these is a small chapel inside the east wall. It is dedicated to Saint Kyriaki who was martyred in the year 289 reportedly for angering the magistrate by not marrying his son and choosing instead to devote her life to Christ.
Church of the Acropolis
On the southern side of the fortification and at the highest point is a church which is dedicated to Archangel Michael. This church sits upon the ruins of an early chrsitan church. On the west side of this church are graves that area shaped like a sarcophagus but I somehow missed this.
More Areas
We explored the entire top of Angelokastro even though we did not know what the other ruins once were. It was fun to speculate though.
The Views
Even more spectacular than the fortress are the views you can see from the top!
View From the Sea
Conclusion
Angelokastro in Corfu, Greece is absolutely worth the effort to climb. Even if you are not into ancient castles, the views alone are worth the trek up. I also want to add right before the start of the trail to Angelokastro there is a little open shop that sells Corfu honey, spices, mountain tea and other products from Greece. I bought honey, spices and tea and they have all been top quality and also delicious.
If you want to read more of some of my posts on Greece you can click on the following links!!
2022 Trip
NW Coast of Corfu by boat, Sept 2022
Exploring the Beaches of NW Corfu, Sept 2022
Hike to Giali Beach, Corfu Sept 2022
E-Bike Tour of Meteora, Greece Sept 2022
Hike to Ypapanti Monastery, Greece Sept 2022
Ancient Delphi, Greece Sept 2022
Itineraries
10 Day Greece Itinerary, Sept 2019
8 Day Greece Itinerary, Sept 2018
Resources
When researching where to go in Greece I find the web site Greeka.com to be very informative.
I like to use the DK Eyewitness Top 10 books when I travel. They are a great for resource and also include a small map. I do get a small commission from Amazon if you buy from my site at no additional charge to you. Click on the link below and check it out.
Such a stunning location with beautiful (and, advantageous) scenic views! Angelokastro looks like an excellent reward for climbing all those stairs. I enjoy the old-world architecture, and also the history you’ve included. Thanks for sharing, Lori 🙂
Glad you enjoyed it, Phil. It must have been quite remarkable in it’s day!
What a climb! But the reward looks to be so worth the effort. Your photos are gorgeous, and the weather looked perfect for a hike. I love getting to see Greece through your eyes and words. Thanks, Lori!
It was indeed a climb but worth it! When I’m Greece I know I will be encountering lots of steps but this was more than the usual!!
Lovely – those views make the hike up worth it, and that little chapel is absolutely beautiful 🙂
I thought the little chapel was pretty cool. The fresco was quoted faded but really amazing to see.
Thanks for sharing! Corfu has been on my list for some time, so I’ll make sure to add this hike to my plans! It looks quite beautiful!
Corfu is a very beautiful island. We found it to be friendly, easy to get around and less expensive than many places. I would go back in a heartbeat!
I enjoyed the juxtaposition of the view from the top (with what looks like a mini Walters Wiggles) with the view from the sea.
It does look like Walters Wiggles! Much easier and safer trek though!!
Lovely photos. Thanks so much!
Glad you enjoyed! I just love to explore these ruins!
Gorgeous views and blue skies as you climb those steps to the very top of Angelokastro! Hopefully, there was enough shade on the climb up, as the sun can be brutal if directly overhead. Looks to be a rewarding hike while in a beautiful country like Greece!
It was actually a nice climb up as it was shaded in places. Definitely worth the effort for the view!
Another great location that we knew little about. Not anymore, thanks to you!
I do like to find off the beaten trail areas! Thanks for reading! Lori