Welcome to Corfu
The Emerald of the Ionian
A journey through history, culture, and stunning views.
Corfu “Kerkyra in Greek” is one of Greece’s greenest and most cosmopolitan islands – a crossroads of cultures with a long, fascinating history and natural beauty.
Quick Facts:
• Population: Around 100,000, mostly in Corfu Town
• Climate: Mild Mediterranean, with warm sunny summers and soft rainy winters
• The island has over 4 million olive trees, many planted by the Venetians in the 16th century
• The British introduced cricket, and it’s still played on Spianada Square today!
• Films & series shot here: James Bond: For Your Eyes Only 1981, The Durrells “ITV”
A Brief History
Corfu’s rich past is shaped by major European powers.
- 1386–1797: Venetian rule – built fortresses, towns, aqueducts, and introduced the olive tree culture
- 1797–1799 & 1807–1814: French rule – brought architecture, squares, and democratic ideas
- 1815–1864: British rule – left roads, the Palace, education systems, and the cricket field
- In 1864, Corfu officially united with Greece
Fun fact: Corfu is one of the few parts of Greece never conquered by the Ottomans.
Monastery of Paleokastritsa
• Founded in 1225 AD, still active with resident monks
• Dedicated to the Virgin Mary “Theotokos”
• Features a small museum with rare icons, manuscripts, and an ancient olive press
• The panoramic view from the courtyard is unforgettable
Myth connection: Some believe Paleokastritsa was the land of the Phaeacians, where Odysseus met Princess Nausicaa.
Paleokastritsa Bay
• Famous for its turquoise waters, caves, and lush green hills
• Once a natural fishing harbor, now a protected area
In the 1950s, it was considered as a site for a royal Greek palace – the plan was dropped to preserve its beauty.
Kanoni & Pontikonisi "Mouse Island"
• “Kanoni” means “cannon” – named after the French artillery post from 1798
• View of Vlacherna Monastery “17th c.” and behind it, Pontikonisi – believed to be Odysseus’ ship turned to stone by Poseidon
The view of planes landing at Corfu airport is a must-see – one of the shortest runways in Europe
Corfu Old Town A Living Museum
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007, the Old Town is a blend of Venetian elegance, French flair, and British charm. Narrow alleyways “kantounia”, stone arcades, flower-filled balconies, and historical cafés await.
Liston Promenade
Where Nobles Once Strolled
• Built in 1807 by the French, based on Paris’s Rue de Rivoli.
• Originally reserved for aristocrats whose names were listed in the “Libro d’Oro”
• Today, everyone is welcome to stroll, sip a coffee, and watch the world go by
Great chance to explore shops, get souvenirs, or try local sweets like mandolato and kumquat liqueur.
Highlights & Historic Buildings
1. St. Spyridon Church “1589”: Home to the island’s protector saint
2. Old Fortress “15th c.”: Venetian-built with tunnels and sea views
3. New Fortress “16th–17th c.”: Built to defend against Turkish attacks
4. San Giacomo Town Hall: Originally a Venetian theatre
5. Palace of St. Michael and St. George “1819”: Built by the British, now houses the Museum of Asian Art
6. Ionian Academy “1824”: The first modern university in Greece
Did you know? Corfu has more than 35 churches in the Old Town alone!