The Castle of Ioannina is inIoannina, on the western shore of Pamvotida lake.

It was built in 528 AD, during the reign of the Emperor Justinian, under the fortification program of the Byzantine territory. The Castle of Ioannina expands over the years, but during the Turkish occupation seems to be almost ruined and deserted. At the end of 18th century, the famous Ali Pasha assumes administration of the city, rebuilt the walls and interiors of the castle.
Inside the castle of Ioannina, the two acropolis stand out: the southeast or otherwise Its Kale and the northeast or Aslan Pasha.

In the northeastern acropolis there is the mosque of Aslan Pasha, with a breathtaking view of the lake and the city of Ioannina. The mosque was built upon the ruins of a Christian church and today houses the Municipal Museum of Ioannina. Three more buildings from the Ottoman era have been found in the wider area: a Turkish bath, a library and the Soufari-serai.

In the southeast acropolis stood the majestic seraglio of Ali Pasha, which was completely destroyed in 1870 by fire. In its place, the building that now houses the Byzantine Museum of Ioannina was built. At the acropolis' highest point, you will find the Fethiye Mosque and next to it the grave of the legendary Ali Pasha that contained only his body, as his head had been sent to the Sultan. Also, here can be found the sole ruins of the medieval castle, the so-called Tower of Bohemond.

Anyone visiting Ioannina must visit the castle of Ioannina too. The unique character of the buildings, the interesting museums and the wonderful views, deserve every minute spent there.