Sitia Kazarma Fortress Traditional Geocache
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A cache at Kazarma Fortress in the beautiful town of Sitia.
The castle fortress known today as "Kazarma" (Casa di arma), is the most imposing historical monument in Sitia.
The Kazarma used to be a military and administrative centre which consisted of a Medieval dwelling surrounded by walls. The fortification of the town and of the Kazarma can be dated to the late Byzantine period.
However, pirate raids, the continual uprisings against the Venetian occupation by the local people and the great earthquake all led to the partial destruction of the fortifications until the Venetians themselves were forced to completely destroy them with the intention of rebuilding them. This never happened and in 1651 the town was razed and then occupied by the Turks.
During the Turkish occupation it would appear that the walls were never rebuilt but the Kazarma was restored and evidence of the Turkish extensions can be seen today, for example in the cupolas ("koubedes") on the battlements that form the watch towers. The Kazarma has since been carefully restored and is open to the public offering a panoramic view across the bay of Sitia.
Lots of cultural events take place in the Kazarma during the summer months.
Information taken from www.sitia.gr
To get to the fortress you have to go up some streets with stairs. To find the cache it is not necessary to enter the castle. However, it's worth a visit. It's open from 8.30 until 15.00 in winter and from 8.30 until 19.00 in summer. It's closed on Mondays.
Mind the muggles around you! And don't forget your pen!
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Nobhg 30 pz sebz gur tebhaq