Choosing a resort in Corfu. Corfu Island: sights and interesting facts
Corfu is very popular among tourists Greek island. Great for seeing all the sights and saving money independent trip by car. So you can see everything interesting places in order, spending time on each object as you see fit.
The length of the island of Corfu is only 65 km - even for a short vacation you can see many sights and have a wonderful rest.
Kerkyra
It is worth starting the trip from the main city - Kerkyra. It is here that the most famous street in Corfu - Liston is located. Previously, aristocrats could walk along it, but now it is available to everyone. main part the streets make up two long buildings with open galleries below.
Along Liston Street you can get to the Church of St. Spyridon - there is no higher bell tower in the city.
Liston Street leads to Spianada Square (Esplanade, Spianada). In its northern part is the Royal Palace. Today it is notable for the Museum of Asian Art and the Municipal Gallery of Corfu.
From the square you can get to the old sea fortress, which began its history in the 6th century. The fortress is of interest not only from the inside - a panorama of the city opens from its top.
Turning off Liston Street, you can find the old town. It has the Venetian quarter of Campiello - being there, as if you are in the past.
Another attraction of Kerkyra - New fortress, represented by two massive bastions. The official name of the building is the fortress of St. Mark.
paleopolis
This archaeological zone is located next to Kerkyra - this used to be the center of ancient Corfu.
Its main attractions:
- temples of Poseidon, Hera, Artemis,
- early Christian basilica.
mouse island
South of Kerkyra is the Kanoni region - on this peninsula there used to be ancient city. It is connected by a pier to a small plot of land where the Blachernae Monastery, built in the 17th century, stands. It houses the miraculous icon of the Mother of God.
From this monastery, you can take a boat to the islet of Pontikonisi, which, according to legend, was once the ship of Odysseus. Climbing up a long white staircase resembling a mouse tail, you can get to the Pantokrator Monastery, built in the 12th century. It is the highest point in Corfu.
Love channel
Sidari beach is located in the north of Corfu. It is attractive for its excellent infrastructure, warm and shallow water and active recreation. Romance to this place gives the "Channel of Love". It is separated from the main beach by a cape.
The Canal of Love attracts not only with warm water, but also with a small arch near the shore. Many legends are associated with it. According to one of them, in order to play a wedding, you need to swim under the arch, guessing the name of the second half. According to another belief, if lovers swim through the canal holding hands, they will never part.
Paleokastritsa and Angelokastro Castle
This most famous and picturesque place of the island is located in Liapades bay. The symbol of Paleokastritsa is the monastery of the Virgin Mary, built in the 18th century. There is also a small museum of ancient icons in this place.
In Paleokastritsa you can take a short trip by sea. The transparent bottom of the boat allows you to see all its inhabitants.
If your trip is with children, then you can look into the aquarium in the city. Although the oceanarium is loudly said. Exposure is not great.
From Paleokastritsa you can get to the castle of Angelokastro. Its other name is the fortress of the Archangel Michael. The building is a monument of the Byzantine era. Inside the fortress there are two churches - St. Kiriaki and Archangel Michael. At the top of the fortress, a stunning panorama opens up.
Viewpoint "Kaiser's Throne"
Not far from Paleokastritsa is the throne of the Kaiser. This place is a historical monument.
This throne was built by order of Wilhelm II, who admired the magnificent view of the sunset.
The observation deck of the throne is located above the village of Pelekas. This cozy village with local flavor and the beautiful beach of Kondoyalos. Nearby is also Glyfada - this beach is one of the most popular in Corfu.
Achillion
In the south of Corfu is the village of Gastouri, notable for the palace of Achilleion. It was built at the end of the 19th century for Elizabeth of Austria, who was impressed by the local nature and history.
In the park area of the palace there is a monument to Achilles, after whom he was named. In addition to this monument, there are many statues and busts on the territory that speak of the rich Greek epic.
Inside the palace is a whole museum. The exhibits concern both the Empress and Greek history.
- Visiting is possible daily from 8.00-20.00. There is an audio guide.
Shell Museum
In the fishing village of Benitses in the south of Kofru, there is a museum of shells - they are collected from all over the world. In addition, among the exhibits there are some marine life.
Old Perisia
North of Pantokrator is the semi-abandoned village of Old Perisia, founded in the 14th century. Once upon a time, residents hid there from pirate raids, and today only a few people live. Once in this place, you can feel the atmosphere of the Middle Ages.
Aquapark
- Opening hours: from May 14 to October 9 from 10.00 to 18.00
- Cost: for the whole day for children 5-12 years old 19 €, adults - 27 €; after 15.00 entry 14€ and 19€ respectively
Fans of entertainment on the water will be satisfied with a large water park with many different slides, different difficulty levels, pools and a quiet river.
For the kids there is a children's pool with entertainment.
Porto Timoni
From the village of Afionas, a footpath leads to Porto Timoni, the historic port and beach. You can get to it in less than half an hour, but the path is far from well-maintained. The view at the end of the path will make you forget about this inconvenience. Archaeologists believe that during the reign of King Alcinous there was a port of the ancient inhabitants of Corfu - the feacs.
Porto Timoni beach is little known to tourists, as it is located quite secluded, and you can only get to it on foot along an inconspicuous path. The area is surrounded by dense vegetation of hills.
In fact, Porto Timoni is two beaches. They are separated by a small strip of land. The color and temperature of the water are different.
Previously, there was a Venetian fortress on the peninsula - behind the beaches you can find the remains of its wall. The seclusion of the bay used to allow ships to hide from pirate raids.
From the beaches you can follow the path to the chapel of St. Stylianos. It is very tiny and almost invisible in the surrounding landscape, and the path to it lies past the cliff.
Rhoda
Not far from Sidari is Roda, one of the best beaches Corfu. Here you can practice water sports, enjoy traditional Greek dishes and picturesque nature.
In the hills surrounding Roda there are Akoli waterfalls and Nymph Village - many stone formations.
We publish for you the most interesting sights of Corfu, which are worth seeing during a trip to this island.
In the very center of the Adriatic Sea is one of the Ionian Islands, known to the world like Corfu or Kerkyra. He was influenced by many peoples and their cultures, so his past is quite interesting. The largest city here is also called Corfu, but there are many more historical sites, villages, religious buildings and beaches that are of interest to tourists.
Below are the attractions of Corfu that are worth seeing while traveling
Agios Georgios beach
The beach of Agios Georgios, with its wide sands, is considered the best on the island. There are several lifeguard stations and beach showers. The southern part of the beach is quite narrow and for the most part tourists prefer the central and northern sections, the sand on which is harder and ideal for building sand castles. Scooters, water skiing, paragliding, kayaking, motorboat rental, etc. are available.
Paleokastritsa beach in Corfu
Paleokastritsa (meaning "place of the old castle") is a small village in the northwest of the island. There are buildings and structures of historical significance, but the biggest attraction is the beach. A cobbled pavement spans the coast, offering a walk on the sand and enjoying the sea view. The beach is a fantastic place to swim or swim, and there are restaurants near the water where you can order coffee, drinks and island specialities.
Old Perisia
For lovers of history and culture of the island, one of the best attractions will be the village of "Old Perisia". From the name you can understand that this is the oldest settlement on the island, now almost abandoned. Located at the foot of Mount Pantokrator, the village was intended to become safe place from where you can see the sea and at the same time the village itself cannot be seen from the shore. Eight churches and over a hundred traditional houses remain in the village. Tourists can visit "Old Perisia" and see the few remaining locals, dine in taverns and watch sheep graze among the fig and cherry trees.
Channel of Love, Sidari
Channel of Love. Photo: booking-corfu.com In the west there are a number of resort areas, most of which work thanks to tourism. all year round. One of them, called "Sidari", is popular due to its proximity to a natural attraction called "Love Canal". Accessible on foot from the beach, the canal is a series of narrow inlets in sandstone rock. Each entry offers something unique. The entrances are protected by rocks, so it's good to soak up the sun on cool days.
La Grotta beach
Opposite the main entrance to the hotel "Paleokastritsa" is the beach. After walking over 150 steps, you will reach the rocky cove of La Grotta, ideal for sunbathing, swimming and exploring the rocky pools. By local standards, this beach has cold water because it is mostly in the shade. Boat rental available.
Old fortress of Corfu
Old fortress of Corfu. Photo: whichgreekisland.co.uk In the east of the peninsula stands the Old Fortress. Known to the Greeks as "Paleo Frurio", this medieval structure was founded in 1546, when the Venetians ruled here. The history of this place stretches even further, since a Byzantine fortress used to stand here. Separated from the city by a moat, the fortress has two peaks (korypha), after which the island is named. Inside, visitors will find a number of British buildings, such as the Church of St. George, built on the site of former Venetian buildings.
Mount Pantokrator
Mount Pantokrator in the northeast of Corfu. Photo: thousandwonders.net The highest peak of the island is Mount Pantokrator, which is a recognizable landmark. From the top you can see the panorama of the whole of Corfu, even Albania is visible in the distance. Hiking to the top of Pantokrator takes about two hours for adults, you can also get there by transport. At the top is a 17th-century church so tourists don't forget the connection between mountains and gods in Greek mythology.
The resort village of Kassiopi
The northeastern part of Corfu is home to Kassiopi, a picturesque seaside resort popular with tourists. The British, for example, love expansive beaches, resort cafes and a relaxed atmosphere. Kassiopi was supposedly founded in the 3rd century BC, the Byzantine fortress still stands on the hill. On the pebble beach are available different types active rest, which allows visitors to enjoy parasailing, horseback riding, snorkeling.
Achilleion Palace in Corfu
Achillion Palace. Photo: thestar.comOne of the most beautiful sights of the island is the "Achilleion Palace". The main theme of the palace is Achilles, which is reflected in its beauty, symmetry and sculpture. The rich palace was built in 1890 by Empress Elisabeth of Bavaria (also known as Sisi) of Austria, a woman known for her obsession with physical beauty. After the death of her son in 1889, she took up the construction of the "Achilleion Palace", which for many decades was a summer palace. Today, a visit to the palace gives the opportunity to visit the renovated premises, as well as the sculpture garden, including the sculpture of the dying Achilles.
Old town in Corfu
Old town on the island of Corfu. Photo: wikimedia Perhaps the most popular in Corfu is the Old Town, the center of the island and the place where tourists will find the greatest concentration of historical sights: old palaces and buildings built in the 19th century. In addition, the Old Town is home to the Esplanade, a promenade and a park built by the French when Napoleon was in power. Reminiscent of France, the Esplanade is a popular place to walk and admire the scenery of the Old Town.
These are the main attractions of Corfu that are worth seeing, although there are many other interesting things on the island.
Recall that if you decide to go to Corfu to enjoy your vacation, it is a must.
Paleokastritsa is located north of the capital of Corfu and is also one of the most popular holiday destinations.
The nature of these places is striking in its wild pristine beauty. Sir Frederick Adam, the British High Commissioner, once ordered the construction of a road connecting the resort with the capital of the island.
The resort and bays are surrounded by rocky mountains covered with dense greenery. At the top of the highest of them stands the monastery of Zoodokhu Pigis (13th century), dedicated to the Mother of God.
There is a working church and a museum on the territory.
Climbing up to the observation deck "Bella Vista", you can enjoy an unforgettable view of the entire west coast, almost from a bird's eye view.
The resort is suitable for families and families with children. The sea here is shallow, so parents do not have to worry about their kids, and children can safely play and splash in shallow water.
Snow-white velvet beaches are equipped with everything necessary for a "lying" holiday. Fans of outdoor activities can go catamarans, water skiing, wind surfing, play tennis or beach volleyball. Diving fans will be happy to plunge into undersea world bays here.
Achilleion Palace
This majestic palace is located 20 km from the city of Kerhira. The building, made in the style of Platonic Romanticism, was built by the Italian architect Rafael Carita specifically for the Empress Elisabeth of Austria and was supposed to be "worthy of Achilles."
Visitors to the palace have always admired the elegance of forms, the author's inlaid furniture, the magnificent Imperial Gardens, which offer a beautiful view of the surrounding valleys and the Ionian Sea. In the center of the garden there is a statue of deadly early Achilles, depicted without pathos and unnecessary arrogance. The author of the statue, a German sculptor, tried to simultaneously show him not only as a hero of myth, but also as an ordinary person.
In another part of the palace, near the main staircase, there is a large painting depicting Achilles in a completely different way. Here he appears as the hero of a legendary myth: royal robes, military regalia and the defeated enemy Hector against the backdrop of an astonished audience.
Unfortunately, in 1898, Empress Elisabeth of Austria (or Sisi) was killed by an anarchist and after her death, this luxurious palace was sold to the German Kaiser Wilhem II. Subsequently, a museum began to be located in this building, where you can see many masterpieces of art, personal belongings of the Empress and the Kaiser.
And what sights of Kerkyra (Corfu) did you like? There are icons next to the photo, by clicking on which you can rate a particular place.
Monastery Paleokastritsa
Paleokastritsa Monastery is located in the area of the same name in the west of Corfu.
The monastery is dedicated to the Mother of God, the Greek name sounds like Moni Teotoku. Modern buildings date back to the 17th century, a new monastery was erected on the site of a monastery built in the 13th century. On the territory of the monastery there is an arched courtyard and a small museum of Byzantine icons and icons of a later era. The interior of the monastery is the standard of classical monastic architecture. From the top of the monastery walls there are wonderful views of the islands, one of which, according to legend, may be the "Ship of Odysseus". The monastery has a pleasant atmosphere of calm and comfort.
The area of Paleokastritsa itself is considered the most beautiful on the island, it is very popular among tourists who often visit the monastery.
Mount Pantokrator is the most high mountain on the island of Corfu.
Its height reaches 906 meters above sea level. It is located in the northeastern part of the island.
There is a monastery at the top of the mountain. The first monastery was built on the same site in 1347, but, unfortunately, it was destroyed in the first half of the 16th century. The Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord, which has survived to this day, was built in 1689.
You can get to the monastery either by car or on foot. The ascent is quite difficult and long, so it is worth weighing everything well before setting off. You won't regret if you do go on foot. beautiful nature and Fresh air contribute good mood. The picturesque view from the top of the mountain will amaze you and give you many great photos.
In clear weather, from the top of the mountain you can see not only the distant Greek islands, but also the territory of neighboring Albania and even Italian lands.
At the top there is also a telecommunications station and a cafe where you can have lunch and relax after the ascent.
old port
Benitses is an old fishing village located 12 kilometers from the city of Corfu, the capital of the island of the same name. If you move from Corfu along the island in a southerly direction, then this will be the first resort area that has recently become very popular among vacationers.
Previously, this area was called “Pinisse” (from the ancient Greek word “pinio” - river). The waters of the springs flowing down from the mountains of Agi Deka and Stavros form two small rivers, hence the name of the village. Until the mid-70s, the village lived a quiet provincial life. Fishing was the main occupation of the local men. The pier of the Old Port every morning saw off and met the fishermen with their catch. Local residents and owners of nearby eateries came to the port to buy fresh fish. Fishing boats rocked quietly on the waves at the pier of the Old Port, and it seemed that it would always be so.
However, with the development of the tourism business, the life of the local population has changed dramatically. The patriarchal way of life was suddenly broken by the noise of night discos and beach parties. This was not to the liking of the local population, and over time, young people stopped coming here on vacation. Despite this, Benitses still remained a popular resort, but today it has a calm, almost family-like atmosphere. And in the Old Port next to simple fishing boats Pleasure boats also appeared, and luxury yachts began to moor more and more often. With their appearance, the Old Port acquired new life without losing the local flavor.
Museum of Asian Art
The Museum of Asian Art is the only museum in Greece dedicated only to Oriental and Indian arts.
The museum is located in the Palace of Saints Michael and George, designed by the English architect George Whitmore during the period when the Ionian Islands were ruled by Great Britain. It was founded in 1927 and was originally called the Museum of Sino-Japanese Art. The exposition of the museum contains more than 11,000 items that cover the Neolithic period up to the 19th century.
Here you can see objects of Chinese art, from the Shang period to the Song dynasty. Among the Chinese objects, one can see coins, paintings, funeral offerings, seals among the Japanese - ceramic statues, samurai costumes, kakemono. The museum also has a significant collection of art from Pakistan, Thailand, Nepal, Tibet and Korea.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday.
Church of St. Spyridon
The Orthodox Church of St. Spyridon is named after St. Spyridon of Trimifuntsky, who is considered the patron saint of the island of Corfu. The relics of the saint, placed in a silver sarcophagus, rest in the temple. Every year on the feast of Easter, the relics of the saint are carried through the streets of the city, and people hang red canvases from their windows. The fact that the patron is honored on the island is confirmed by the fact that the name Spiridon is very common here.
Initially, the temple building was located in the Sarocco region, but later it was moved to its current location due to the construction of the city walls. The temple building was built in 1590 in a style characteristic of the Ionian Islands, which is so unlike other Greek temples. The church is clearly influenced by the Italian architecture of the 17th century, as it stands out with its impressive belfry, reminiscent of the belfry of the church of St. George in Venice.
The most striking elements in the interior of the church are the ceiling of the church and the iconostasis. Initially, the ceiling of the temple was painted by Paiotis Doxaras.
Are you curious to know how well you know the sights of Kerkyra (Corfu)? .
Old city of Kerkyra
The old city of Corfu is in close proximity to the modern part, but most of the tourist attention is concentrated in the old Corfu. Some of the most famous architectural sights of Corfu are located in this part of the city.
The architecture of the medieval city is made in the Baroque style. In this area, everything is of interest to the inexperienced eye of a tourist - narrow and winding streets, houses with low balconies, decorated with flowers and vines, a majestic embankment with stunning palaces, fountains and colonnades. Italian travelers like to compare the Old Town with Italy, because the architecture in this part is almost no different from the Italian one. However, in this area of Kerkyra, Greek architects embodied ideas not only in the Baroque style, but also in national, French and English. Houses of various buildings are decorated with balconies and windows with graceful bars, arches and galleries, making appearance buildings are unique.
There are no street layouts in the old city, they all randomly lead to the main monuments, palaces and temples of Corfu. One of the most important sights for the Greeks is the Blachernae Monastery, which is considered the guardian angel of Kerkyra. The ancient part of the city is located near the monastery, and residents consider this neighborhood symbolic.
The crossroads of East and West, washed by two seas, has always attracted close attention. If you believe the myths, Jason looked here, returning with the Golden Fleece from Colchis. Here Odysseus met his beautiful savior Nausicaa.
Paid tribute to the beauty of the island Oscar Wilde and Goethe. Gerald Durrell, with his trilogy ("My Family and Other Animals", "Garden of the Gods", "Birds, Beasts and Other Relatives"), has increased the number of fans of the island.
Corfu is the Italian version of the name of the island. By the way, Italy is within easy reach, and many tourists take the opportunity to go there for a couple of days. The Greek name for the island is Kerkyra.
A little general information about Corfu
- This is the westernmost island of Greece, the second largest in the Ionian Sea (after Kefalonia).
- The capital of the island is Corfu or Kerkyra (Corfu Town)
- The climate is typical Mediterranean, with warm winters and sunny summers. Thanks to the breeze, even in summer there is no suffocating heat, unless you decide to stay in the center of Corfu.
- Well-developed tourist infrastructure, huge selection hotels, a variety of beaches - all this has made the island very popular among tourists and, as a result, not the cheapest place to stay in Greece.
The best resorts of Corfu
The coast of the island can be conditionally divided into 4 resort areas, which differ in nature, beaches, seasonality, and tourist infrastructure. In total, there are about 30 towns and villages focused on receiving tourists. Let's stop at the most popular resorts of Corfu.
Map of Corfu with the main resorts
Resorts of Corfu on the East Coast
Here are perhaps the most populous resort towns and villages of Corfu.
Kerkyra
Resorts of Corfu - Kerkyra
It is located 2 km from the airport, a picturesque place that you need to visit regardless of which resort you settled in.
When visiting Kerkyra, do not forget to ask St. Spyridon for the fulfillment of your most cherished desire.
- Beaches: sand and pebble
- Night life: the most active on the island, all establishments are concentrated in the city center.
- Who is the resort for?: for young people, for those who travel for an active nightlife
Gouvia, Kammeno, Dassia, Kontokali
Resorts Corfu - Dassia
The villages are located 12 - 14 km from the airport, north of Kerkyra. There are a large number of hotels of various levels, including elite ones (in Kommeno), many bars, restaurants, and discos. From here it is convenient to get to any point of the island for visiting excursions.
- Beaches: narrow strips of sand and pebble beaches with convenient entry into the sea, very picturesque, clean.
- Night life: despite the presence of discos, for fun at night, many go to the center of Kerkyra.
- Who is the resort for?: depending on the hotel, any category of tourists is comfortable here. Young people most often choose hotels in Gouvia and Kontokali. The perfect place for family rest - green picturesque Dassia.
Corfu Resorts on the South Coast
This part of the coast is very fond of young people - there is where to have fun and the prices are more affordable.
Messonghi, Moraitika, Benitses
Corfu Resorts - Messonghi
Resort villages are located 18-22 km from the airport south of Kerkyra. Very busy resort towns, it is possible to stroll outside the hotels, promenade, shops, bars, taverns. Convenient for excursions.
- Beaches: a narrow coastal strip, sandy-pebble and sandy beaches, with a gentle entry into the sea, well equipped.
- Night life: for this they go to Corfu or Messonghi.
- Who is the resort for?: depending on the hotel, any category of tourists is comfortable here.
Kavos
Resorts Corfu - Kavos
The resort is located 45 km from the airport south of Corfu. This one southern resort Corfu has long been mastered by English and Scandinavian youth, so be prepared for noisy parties in bars. The hotels here are inexpensive, there are many apartments on offer.
- Beaches: narrow coastal strip, sand and pebble, with a comfortable entry into the sea.
- Night life: Quite active in Kavos itself.
- Who is the resort for?: for youth, for party-goers.
Corfu Resorts on the West Coast
The most picturesque beaches of Corfu are located on the western side of the island. Beautiful nature, cozy bays, the purest Ionian Sea, rich underwater world - all this attracts many tourists here.
Glyfada
Resorts Corfu - Glyfada
The resort is located 15-17 km from the airport to the west of Kerkyra. Quiet and peaceful place with excellent Blue Flag beaches.
- Beaches: sandy (considered one of the best on the island), with a comfortable entry into the sea.
- Night life: for nightlife you will have to go to Corfu.
- Who is the resort for?: Great for families
Paleokastritsa, Liapades
Corfu Resorts - Paleokastritsa
This is perhaps the most beautiful resorts Corfu. The distance to the airport is 22-24 km.
- Beaches: sand and pebble, small, with numerous bays near the hotels.
- Night life: Paleokastritsa has a small number of bars.
- Who is the resort for?: an excellent choice for couples, for a romantic relaxing holiday.
Corfu resorts on the North coast
Resorts in this part of the island are not crowded, with good infrastructure and a comfortable sandy coast.
Barbati, Nissaki, Cassiopi
Resorts Corfu - Nissaki
These resort villages are located 19-30 km from the airport north of Kerkyra. Hotels are located in small bays, often with their own beach.
- Beaches: as a rule, small sand and pebble beaches at hotels in bays.
- Night life: for nightlife you will have to go to the center of Corfu.
- Who is the resort for?: a good choice for a relaxing holiday for couples, for families.
Acharavi
Corfu Resorts - Acharavi
The resort is located 40 km from the airport north of Kerkyra. It is considered the center of youth recreation in the north of the island - the city has many bars, it is lively. Hotels here tend to have large areas.
- Beaches: wide sandy, the sea is quite often restless here - surfers have chosen this area.
- Night life: everything in the center of Acharavi you can find everything you need for nightlife.
- Who is the resort for?: for any category of tourists, the main thing is to choose the right hotel.
How to get to Corfu
By plane:
- the island has international Airport. During the high season there are direct flights from Moscow.
- with a short connection at a very affordable price, you can buy tickets with a flight through Athens.
Find flights to Corfu
Cheap tickets to Corfu
- you can get to the island by sea from Patras, Igoumenitsa, Venice, any island in the Ionian Sea
Hotels in Corfu
Holidays in Corfu are considered not the cheapest in Greece, but despite this, here you can choose accommodation options for a wide variety of wallets. The range of prices can be from 35-40€ per room in apartments to 500-800€ in deluxe hotels.
The legendary Greek island of Corfu is located in the northern part of the coast of Greece. The warm Ionian Sea washes it with gentle waves. It is here that you can see an extraordinary mixture of landscapes, eras and cultures.
Sightseeing tours show tourists all the most interesting things, but what is really worth seeing when you come to the island for the first time? Consider the most famous sights of the island of Corfu.
Story
Corfu has a rich, centuries-old history. Epochs and religions, cultures and traditions are mixed here. The island has been conquered and liberated many times. The owners here were the Spartans, Byzantines, French, Venetians and the British. The first mentions of Corfu date back to Greek mythology. Kerkyra, this is the name of the island by the locals, in honor of Poseidon's beloved, the capital is also called by the same name.
Today, Kerkyra, or as the city of Corfu Town is also called, is a favorite place to visit for tourists from different countries peace. Once here for the first time, it seems that France, Greece, Italy and England have merged into one. Interestingly, tourists notice that the city has an exact copy of the French Rue de Rivoli.
Sights of Corfu
The locals call the island of Corfu in different ways. Someone says about it that this is a place where everything is possible, others call it the Land of the Gods, but this place has been nicknamed by tourists as the Millionaires' Resort. This is not surprising, because here you can meet the most famous and richest people in the world, even representatives of royal families come here to relax.
This island welcomes literally everyone. It is comfortable for elderly couples, large families and youth companies. Consider the most interesting sights of the resort, which is worth seeing for a tourist.
Achillio
On the eastern part of the coast, in the small village of Gastouri, there is an extraordinary palace built by order of the Austrian Empress Sissi. The palace got its name in honor of the hero of ancient Greek myths Achilles. The castle was built in the IXX century and is still perfectly preserved. In the building and the nearby garden, you can find dozens of ancient Greek sculptures, which are the personification of mythological heroes. The sculptures of the dying Achilles and the statues of the Muses make an indelible impression.
There is also something to see inside the palace. There are many unique frescoes depicting ancient scenes, which have no analogues in the world. Plants of rare beauty frame the palace, which were brought here from different parts of the world by order of Emperor Wilhelm II, who became the owner of the castle at the beginning of the 20th century.
Old city
The central part of Corfu is a unique historical monument of world culture. The interweaving of narrow stone-paved streets can lead tourists to the most secluded and interesting corners of the capital. Numerous churches, unique Gothic buildings, small souvenir shops and cozy cafes will be found here at every step.
Church of St. Spyridon
In the heart of the Old City is the oldest Christian shrine - the temple of St. Spyridon. Here are the remains of the patron saint of Corfu, St. Spyridon Trimifuntsky. It is this saint who is credited with the fact that Kerkyra was able to escape the terrible plague twice and was never captured by the Turks.
The islanders believe that at sunset, when the temple is empty, Saint Spyridon bypasses his possessions and guards this place. According to the assurances of local residents, his clothes wear out, and therefore every year he is changed into a new dress. The old clothes of the saint are cut into small pieces and distributed to people in envelopes. It is believed that such a charm saves anyone from illness and misfortune. Interestingly, the name Spiridon is still the most common among male names among the local population.
Icon of Ushakov
Admiral Fyodor Ushakov was a significant figure for the island. It was thanks to him that the State of the Seven Islands was created, which marked the beginning of the development of modern Greece. The admiral, together with the indigenous population, was able to hold back the onslaught of the French, thereby preserving the freedom of the local residents. After his death, Admiral Ushakov was canonized as a saint. The icon of the saint with his face is kept in the Cathedral of John the Baptist. You can get to this place by crossing the square from the temple of St. Spyridon.
canoni
In the south of the capital of Corfu lies the small picturesque village of Kanoni. Tourists love this place for wonderful houses, beautiful beaches and magnificent views of the neighboring island with a monastery. Here is a small hotel where you can stay with your family and spend unforgettable days swimming in the warm Ionian Sea. The indigenous population of the village is incredibly hospitable, everyone can feel at home here.
Monastery of Panagia Blachernae
Opposite the village is a small island. You can get here by a long pier that leads to the tiny monastery of Panagia Blachernae. The most amazing thing is that right above the monastery there is an air route that leads to the airport of Corfu, so the planes fly here so low that it seems that they are about to hit the bell tower of the Cathedral.
The monastery, unfortunately, is no longer active, but in the temple you can pray and light candles. Here, in the church shop, various souvenirs are sold. Many tourists specially come to the monastery to find peace and tranquility within these walls. The sights of Corfu attract not only ordinary tourists, but also pilgrims to this place.
