First built by the Venetians in the 13th Century, Kales Fort remains an imposing structure overlooking the Vardar River. Chiseled blocks of yellow limestone and travertine form the fort’s ramparts and stone steps. As you make your way through the fort’s passageways, you’re likely to notice the faded characters etched deep into the stone, indicative of the fort’s Roman roots. It may not be apparent at a glance but the fort has survived multiple sieges and even an earthquake over the course of its long history. These stories and more are seeped into the evenly lined brown stone that has been used in every pillar and courtyard within the fort’s interior.

Despite the extensive restoration efforts, the entire fort could not be preserved and the broken remnants of towers definitely add a touch of melancholic charm to the castle. While there, cultural performances and exhibits might occasionally be on offer for visitors to enjoy. A walk through Kales is sure to bring you through an intriguing tale of how Ierapetra and the greater Mecedonia came to be.