Nafplio

Bourtzi: Nafplio's Legendary Sea Fortress

July 29, 2025

Eleni Papadopoulos

I took a quick boat ride from Nafplio's port and explored the compact Bourtzi fortress, spending about 45 minutes walking through its historic stone corridors. The panoramic views of the coastline and the fascinating stories about its past as an executioner's residence made this short trip completely worth the ticket price.

A tiny island fortress that has shape-shifted from pirate defense to executioner's home, Bourtzi sits like a stone sentinel in Nafplio's harbor. Discover the untold stories of a landmark that's more than just another Greek historical site.

Need-to-Know Info Before Visiting Bourtzi

Bourtzi Address

Sea Fortress, 600 meters west of Nafplio Port, Greece

Bourtzi Opening Hours

  • 🕒 Summer Season (May-September): 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • 🕒 Winter Season (October-April): 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • 🕒 Closed on select national holidays

How to get to Bourtzi

  • 🚗 By car: Park at Nafplio Port, then take boat transfer
  • 🚌 Public transport: Local tour boats from Akti Miaouli
  • 🚕 Rideshare: Taxi boats available from main port

What is Bourtzi known for?

  • 15th-century Venetian fortress built in 1473 to protect Nafplio's harbor
  • Historically served as a pirate deterrent, executioner's residence, and later a hotel
  • Unique battlements design similar to Moscow's Kremlin, reflecting Venetian architectural influence

What is Bourtzi in Nafplio?

Bourtzi stands as a compact sea fortress floating in the middle of Nafplio's harbor, drawing thousands of tourists each year for its compact yet intriguing history. Located just 600 meters from the town's main port, this small island landmark represents a snapshot of Greek maritime defense history that tourists can actually visit. Short boat rides from Akti Miaouli's northeastern end transport travelers to this stone fortress, which has transformed dramatically through centuries - from a critical pirate defense point to an executioner's residence, and now a popular tourist destination. The fortress's stone walls tell a story of strategic importance, with architectural details mirroring Moscow's Kremlin, showcasing the widespread influence of 15th-century Venetian design. Photography enthusiasts appreciate Bourtzi for its picturesque positioning against Nafplio's coastline, making it a prime spot for capturing Greece's historical maritime landscape. Despite its small size, the fortress offers visitors a tangible connection to Nafplio's complex past, serving as more than just a scenic attraction but a genuine historical artifact that travelers can explore up close.

Top things to do at Bourtzi

  • Take a short boat ride from Nafplio's port to explore the island fortress up close
  • Photograph the fortress against the backdrop of Nafplio's coastline, capturing its unique maritime setting
  • Learn about the fortress's complex history, including its roles as a pirate deterrent and executioner's residence
  • Compare the fortress's Venetian battlements to architectural designs of other European defensive structures
  • Enjoy a guided tour explaining the strategic importance of the fortress in Greek maritime defense
  • Purchase souvenirs and local maritime history books from the small on-site information center

Tickets and Tours

Boat tours to Bourtzi are run by Odyssey Cruises, with ticket sales available directly at the departure point on the northeastern end of Akti Miaouli. Prices are typically affordable, ranging from 5-10 euros per person. Tours last approximately 30-45 minutes, including transportation and a brief exploration of the fortress. Advance booking is recommended during peak summer tourist season.

History of Bourtzi

  • 1473: Original construction of the fortress by Venetian architects
  • 15th Century: Served as a critical maritime defense point against pirate invasions
  • Late 15th-16th Century: Functioned as a strategic naval protection point for Nafplio's port
  • 19th Century: Transformed into a residence for executioners, isolating them from the main town
  • Early 20th Century: Briefly operated as a hotel, showcasing the fortress's adaptability
  • 1950-Present: Converted into a historical tourist attraction and museum

Tips for Visitors

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven stone surfaces
  • Bring a light jacket, as sea winds can be chilly even in summer
  • Carry a camera to capture panoramic views of Nafplio's coastline
  • Plan your visit during morning hours for better lighting and fewer crowds
  • Check weather conditions before booking, as boat trips can be canceled in rough seas
  • Consider combining the Bourtzi tour with other Nafplio historical sites

What are some interesting facts about Bourtzi?

  • The fortress was once home to the town's executioner, who lived in complete isolation to avoid social stigma
  • Bourtzi's architectural design is so unique that its battlements were replicated in multiple Venetian fortresses across the Mediterranean
  • During its history, the small island fortress has transformed from a defensive structure to a hotel, making it one of Greece's most adaptable historical landmarks