Kavala Fortress #1087

Description

Originally built in antiquity, it was repeatedly rebuilt and strengthened by the Byzantines, though the current structure primarily reflects the Ottoman reconstruction of 1425.

Since the 5th century BC, the city of Kavala was protected by defensive walls, which were modified and repaired over the centuries. Major renovations took place during the Roman and Byzantine periods, notably under Emperor Julian (361-363), Emperor Justinian, and again in 926 by Basil Cladon, a general of the Theme of Strymon.

A significant expansion occurred in 1307 under Emperor Andronicos II Palaiologos, when long walls were constructed from the sea to the hilltop, integrating the city’s water supply—an innovation previously seen in Justinian’s fortifications at Anastasioupolis.

In 1391, the Byzantine castle was completely destroyed when the Turks captured Kavala. The Ottomans rebuilt it in 1425, and the structure visible today largely reflects that Ottoman-era reconstruction.