The New Fortress is “new” because it was the second defensive complex built by the Venetians to protect the town of Corfu [the first was the Old Fortress]. From 1386, Corfu was among the most prized possessions of the Republic of Venice, which spared no expense to shield it from the rapacious Ottomans. The New Fortress was built between 1576 and 1645 on a hill overlooking the town. It was designed by the Italian military engineer Ferrante Vitelli (circa 1550-1584).