The imposing castle of Aghia Mavra is strategically located close to Lefkada town, where since the 14th century it has guarded the narrow canal that separates the island from the mainland. It was built by Count John I Orsini of Cephalonia, who received the island as a wedding gift when he married the daughter of Nikephoros I, ruler of Epirus. But the castle has been home to many: Venetians, Ottoman Turks, French, Russians, English, Italians, even refugees. Today, instead of defending the island against invaders, it warmly welcomes visitors from all over the world, showing off its once formidable moats and bastions. Inside the walls are the ruins of various buildings, the lighthouse that was built in 1891 and the small church of Aghia Mavra.