Rethymnon, the Fortezza (or the Fortetsa).

The building dominates Rethymnon and can be seen from far away where it is situated above the harbour, looking down on the Rethymnon.

It was drawn by Palalvicini around 1570 and was build to protect the harbour against pirates (Barbarossa destroyed the town in 1538) and against the threat from the turcs.

The walls are largely intact to this day. Within there is a mosque, a small church and parts of the governors area. Most of it is in ruins though.

This year when I visited it, repairs were going on as an European Union project.

The view from up at the Fortezza over the town is very nice. Activities like outdoor concerts and theater performances are also regularly held within its walls.