The fortress of Antirrio is near the modern bridge of Rio-Antirrio (left). Photo source: Ephorate of Antiquities of Etoloakarnania and Lefkada
The Antirrio Fortress in western Greece is set to receive significant upgrades to its facilities and infrastructure to better accommodate visitors with mobility limitations, the Greek Culture Ministry announced on Wednesday. The fortress is located at the entrance of the Gulf of Patra, near the town of Antirrio, across the water from Nafpaktos.
The ministry aims to transform the historically significant site into a fully accessible cultural destination, thereby enhancing the “silver economy” and promoting the arts. Planned improvements include the installation of specialized walkways for individuals with mobility issues or the elderly, the development of an information center, a café, and enhanced public amenities.
The project will be funded by Greece’s Recovery and Resilience Fund.
The entrance of the Antirrio Fortress. Photo source: Ministry of Culture
Culture Minister Lina Mendoni noted that while renovation works at the Antirrio Fortress have been underway in recent years, the necessary infrastructure for accommodating visitors with mobility challenges had not been implemented.
“As a result,” the minister added, “the fortress has not yet become a popular tourism destination, despite attracting many visitors during the summer months when cultural events are held within its walls”.
Mendoni said that the ministry is dedicated to transforming the Antirrio Fortress into a visitor-friendly destination that will also host cultural events, with a future capacity of up to 4,500 participants.
Planned improvements at the Antirrio Fortress include the creation of designated parking spaces for individuals with mobility needs, the installation of additional lighting, ramps for the visually impaired, and Braille signage. A platform elevator will be added to assist with wheelchair access, and shaded areas will be established in the courtyard for visitor relaxation.
Located in the regional unit of Aetolia-Acarnania (or Etoloakarnania), where the ancient city of Molikrio once stood, the Antirrio Fortress was built by Sinan Pasha on the orders of Sultan Bayezid II. Across the strait lies its counterpart, the Rio Fortress, situated in the Peloponnese along the narrow passage known as the “Little Dardanelles”, which leads to the Corinthian Gulf.
