Ancient Fortress of Aigosthena

The fortress of the Aigosthena, in Porto Germeno in Western Attica, was built in the second half of the 4th century BC and it is one of the most imposing ancient fortresses in Greece. It is built in the foothills of Cithaeron and extends to the sea on the eastern side of the Corinthian Gulf, in the bay of Aigosthena. The fortress consists of the Acropolis and the lower city. The acropolis is built on a low hill, at a distance of 450 m from the sea. It has a rectangular shape and is defined around the perimeter by an enclosure with towers. Its eastern side is preserved to a great height, strengthened by four towers and has a small gate. The impressive tower in the southeast corner of the acropolis is the largest and tallest tower in the fortress. It is one of the most important monuments of ancient fortification art. It is today restored to its full form and the inside part is accessible on all three floors. The acropolis was connected to the harbor by long walls. Only the northern long wall is preserved, comprising at least seven towers and two gates. Its last tower is partially submerged in the sea. The five-aisled basilica of the 5th century AD is an indication of the continuation of habitation during early Christian period. On top of the ruins of the basilica, in the 11th century, the small church of Panagia or Saint Anna was built with ancient building materials. In the Late Byzantine and Post-Byzantine period, the site of the acropolis hosted a monastery, from which the ruins of cells are preserved, as well as the catholicon, dedicated to Saint George. In 1981, the strong Alcyonides earthquake in the Gulf of Corinth caused significant damage and collapses of the fortress. Since 2011, the Ministry of Culture has started major restoration and rehabilitation projects for the fortress.