The castle was positioned specifically to place Parga under continuous artillery fire without entering the town itself.
The location was chosen because it offered the highest ground in the area, allowing the garrison to monitor all incoming maritime traffic.
Construction took place during a period of intense geopolitical tension between Ali Pasha and the inhabitants of Parga, who were under British protection.
The interior layout includes the remains of a small mosque and specialized cisterns for long-term water storage during sieges.
It served as the operational base for Ali Pasha's troops for several years until the town of Parga was officially ceded to him in 1819.
The Castle of Anthousa, also known as the Castle of Ali Pasha, is a fortress built in 1814 overlooking the coastal town of Parga. Ali Pasha of Ioannina commissioned the construction to establish a strategic position for the siege and eventual blockade of Parga. The structure features a unique design with two fortified walls and a high circular tower serving as the commander's quarters. It sits on a rocky hill separating the village of Anthousa from the Ionian coast. The fortress provided artillery vantage points to exert control over the surrounding territory and harbor. Extensive restoration efforts have stabilized the masonry and interior spaces for visitor access. The site remains a primary example of Ottoman-era military architecture in the Epirus region. Panoramic views of the Parga coastline and the Ionian Sea are accessible from the upper battlements.
The upper level of the main tower, looking toward the Ionian Sea and the bay of Parga.
Wear shoes with high traction as the interior terrain is uneven and can be slippery.
Bring your own water as there are no vendor facilities within the castle walls.
Visit during the shoulder season to avoid the intense midday heat, as there is limited shade inside the structure.
Attempting to climb on the exterior walls or unstable masonry; stick to the marked interior paths to avoid injury.
Often closed or restricted during the off-season winter months; verify local access as maintenance may cause temporary closures.
