Bourtzi Castle and morning fog. Built by the Venetians in 1473 on the tiny islet of Agioi Theodoroi, this maritime fortress, was strategically designed to protect the historic city and its port from pirates and naval invaders. Over the centuries, the castle has served varied roles—evolving from a defensive military outpost into a prison, the home of the town executioner, and even a luxury boutique hotel in the mid-20th century. Today, it stands fully restored as one of the country's most photographed coastal monuments, beautifully framed by the calm blue waters of the Argolic Gulf and the dramatic ridges of the Peloponnese mountains.