Byzantine Castle of Trikala

The Castle of Trikala, symbol of the city of Trikala, is located on its northeastern side. According to Procopius, it was erected by Justinian I (6th century) on the ruins of the acropolis of ancient Trikka. During the Palaeologan period, it underwent extensive construction and repair work. During the fall of the city by the Ottomans, some parts of the castle were destroyed, however, the great strategic importance that the city acquired as an advanced base against the unruly mountain populations of Pindos and Agrafa forced the Ottomans to repair, complete and preserve the surviving parts. The fortress underwent repeated repairs after the Thessalian revolutions of 1854 and 1878. This castle was an important security factor for the initial development of the settlement on its slopes and foothills.