Castle of Ioannina

The Castle of Ioannina is Greece’s oldest Byzantine castle that remains inhabited to this day. Built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinianus, it looms over the city’s eastern side, adjacent to Lake Pamvotida. During the Ottoman era, especially under the rule of Ali Pasha (late 18th to early 19th century), the castle experienced significant growth and acquired its final form, being fortified with strong walls, towers, and important constructions. It is divided into two acropolises: the southeastern acropolis, which includes Its Kale, and the northeastern acropolis, which is home to Aslan Pasha’s mosque. Within the castle’s interior stand remarkable monuments, such as the Byzantine Museum, Fethiye Mosque, and Ali Pasha’s prison. Today, the castle serves as a vibrant cultural hub hosting residences, museums, and events that connect the past with the present, offering visitors a unique experience.