Fortress of Koules – Aptera: open to the public every Sunday in October

On Sunday, 29th September, the Municipality of Chania officially opened the gates of the Ottoman Fortress (Koules) in Aptera!
The inside of the Fortress  can be visited on Sundays throughout October, 11.00 – 14.00.

The fortress was built by the Turks (Hussein Avni Pasha ) after the Cretan Revolution in 1866, during the effort to control Crete again through a net of fortification works. It was built by Hüseyin Avni Paşa and is a representative sample of fortress architecture in the 19th century.The complex of monuments in the area (Ancient Theatre of Aptera, Roman finds, Monastery of Saint John Theologos, Fortress of Ijedin, Islet of Souda) is of great archaeological and historical value.

The Koules Fortress is located 12km east of Chania,near Kalami village and the relics of ancient Aptera.
You can also combine your visit to the Koules Fortress with a visit to Ancient Aptera (Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30  to 15.00), admission: 4 euros, senior citizens (65+) and students 2 euros

Directions:
take the National Road towards Chania, take the turn off  to Aptera. The road winds its way up the hill, reaching the modern village of Aptera with three tavernas and cafés. After the lovely ‘Kafeneion 1912’ turn left, head uphill, following the signs.
Parking space is provided.

Source: Cultural Association Platanias