This location is #34 on our Best Travel Destinations In Greece & Greek Islands Map!
Ioannina Castle, located in Ioannina, Greece, is a historic fortress situated on a rocky promontory by Lake Pamvotis, covering an area of approximately 49 acres. The castle’s walls, stretching about 1.2 miles in perimeter and standing up to 26 feet high in some sections, enclose a blend of Byzantine, Ottoman, and Venetian architectural influences. Its strategic position, with an elevation of around 1,575 feet above sea level, made it a key defensive stronghold. The castle includes two main citadels: the northeastern citadel, housing the Aslan Pasha Mosque, and the southeastern citadel, known as Its Kale, which contains the Fethiye Mosque and the tomb of Ali Pasha. Narrow streets, traditional houses, and historic buildings like the Byzantine Museum create a well-preserved cultural site, reflecting centuries of diverse rule.
During World War II, Ioannina Castle played a significant role due to its location in a contested region. Occupied by Italian forces in 1941 after Greece’s entry into the war, the castle and city faced hardship under Axis control. The local population, including a prominent Jewish community, suffered greatly; in 1943, nearly 190 Jews from Ioannina were deported to concentration camps, with few returning. The castle itself, while not a primary military target, served as a backdrop for resistance activities, as local groups organized against the occupiers. Bombings and skirmishes damaged parts of the city, but the castle’s sturdy walls endured, symbolizing resilience. After liberation in 1944, the castle area became a place of recovery and remembrance for the community.
The ancient history of Ioannina Castle traces back to the Byzantine era, with foundations likely established in the 6th century under Emperor Justinian I, though earlier Hellenistic settlements existed nearby. The castle’s current form began taking shape around the 11th century when it was fortified to protect against Norman invasions. Archaeological evidence suggests the site was a thriving hub, with walls and structures built using local stone. In the 13th century, the Despotate of Epirus used the castle as a regional power center, enhancing its defenses. Artifacts like pottery and coins found within the castle grounds point to continuous occupation, linking it to ancient Greek and Roman influences before its Byzantine prominence. The castle’s layered history reflects its role as a cultural and military cornerstone through antiquity.
