DRAKANO FORTRESS
One of the best preserved examples of Athenian military watchtowers from the Hellenistic period,
Drakano Fortress and its fortifications were built during the time of Alexander the Great in the
4th century BC. This 44 foot high limestone tower served as an observation point for Aegean Sea
traffic sailing the channel between Ikaria and Samos. The tower was part of a larger garrison and
eventual Ikarian city that was noted for its wine production. In 1827 the tower was damaged by Greek
naval forces who used it for target practice. Near the tower stands the solitary Church of St. George,
and below the church is the remote sandy beach of St. Giorgis. Access to Drakano is via a dirt road
leading from the seaside village of Faros. The road ends where a footpath begins, and visitors must
then hike about 15 minutes north to the fortress area.
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