The tiny Greek island that has reopened to tourists after five years
A TINY Greek island has reopened its doors to tourists, after closing for refurbishment five years ago.
The miniature island is off the coast of a seaside town known for being a holiday hotspot for Athenians, who go to escape the bustle of the city.
The Bourtzi Fortress can be seen out at sea from the shores of Nafplio in the Peloponnese, an hour and a half drive from the capital.
Earlier this month, the Greek culture ministry and the Hellenic Public Properties Co announced that the castle had reopened to the public as "an accessible monument of culture and recreation".
The monument had undergone restoration and maintenance in order to maintain its status as a popular site for tourists.
The island fortress is a Venetian castle located in the middle of the harbour in Nafplio.
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It was built by Antonio Gambello, an architect from Bergamo, in 1471, although its construction was completed by the engineer Brancaleone.
The design was made specifically to fit the narrow shape of the islet, and at first, it was used as a small castle where an executioner lived and put prisoners to death.
It is now a tourist attraction, with the latest refurbishment making it more accessible for people with disabilities.
Visitors are now once again being welcomed back, after the fort was reopened on August 5.
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What's more, admission will be free of charge until August 17, with visitors required to buy a ticket from the day after.
Bourtzi will be open to visitors every day from Monday to Sunday, from 9am until 8pm.
Several musical and cultural events are held at the Venetian castle during the summer.
A small exhibition space and a souvenir shop have also been added, while a pre-existing restaurant and refreshment stand remain in place.
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During the 1930s it operated as a centre of the Greek national Tourist Organisation and from 1960 to 1970 as a luxury hotel and restaurant.
However, staying on the fort is no longer an option and guests have to make use of the small boats that drop anchor at the dock and reach Bourtzi in 10 minutes.
The culture ministry told : “The fortress is a popular tourist destination, and its restoration will make it even more accessible and enjoyable for visitors."
The castle has an overall score of 4/5 from hundreds of reviews on TripAdvisor.
One wrote: "This picture postcard Venetian fortress set in the middle of Nafplio bay is a true symbol of Greece's most beautiful town."
Another said: "What a wonderful attraction both for tourists and the locals."
A third added: "A must see historic place when you visit Nafplio."
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Meanwhile, this UK seaside town is almost like visiting a Greek island.
And this Little-known Greek island is just like Santorini where the locals go on holiday to avoid the crowds.
