Kazarma Fortress is a Venetian-era fortress situated in the town of Sitia on the far east side of Crete and approximately 70km from the city of Agios Nikolaos.
Kazarma takes its name from the Italian “casa di arma” which means “weaponry”. The fortress was built in the 13th century by the Venetians when they ruled Crete and was the main defensive fortification of the town of Sitia.
The Venetians abandoned Sitia in 1651, following the invasion of the Turks and destroyed parts of the fortress to prevent being used by their enemies and moved to Chandax which is the modern day Heraklion.
Over the years, the fortress has been partially destroyed by earthquakes and pirate raids, most famous that of the well-known pirate Barbarossa. Nowadays, it has been restored and used as a venue for cultural events such as concerts, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances.
