Activities in central Corfu
Central Corfu offers some extremely interesting activities that appeal to lovers of history and Corfiot culture. There are several museums, as well as various monuments of high architectural and historical importance.
Corfu Town hosts the most important monuments of the island, which are a significant reminder of the past. Two of them are the Old and the New Fortress, defensive works built in the 16th century, and since then, they have been continuously developed and reconstructed. Corfu’s forts have played a pivotal role in the island’s history and have been of great help to its inhabitants in times of war and turmoil. Another important monument of Corfu is the Palace of Archangel Michael and St. George. This building was constructed in the early 19th century and was initially used to house the officials during the English rule. In the old town of Corfu, one will find many more important places to explore. The Liston and the Spianada Square, the largest in the Balkans, are two of the most famous sites, hosting a long history. In the historical center of the town, the visitor has the opportunity to visit some of the most important religious monuments of the island. One of them is the church of Agios Spyridon, patron saint and miracle worker. The church has a centuries-old history and an impressive bell tower that towers 40 meters high with a clock similar to that of St. George of the Greeks in Venice.
Historic Fortresses, Royal Palaces, Museums, Monuments, Traditional Villages, and Cultural Landmarks in the Heart of Corfiot Heritage
This vast cultural heritage encourages visitors to explore Corfu Town in greater depth. Wandering through the quaint, narrow alleys in areas where time feels suspended is a perfect way for those interested in the island’s traditions and culture to immerse themselves. Corfu Town is also home to the island’s archaeological museum, which exhibits around 1600 exhibits from prehistoric times to late antiquity.
Perhaps Corfu’s best known and most beautiful attraction is Pontikonisi (Mouse Island). This small islet is known for its natural beauty, as it has been the occasion for one of the most famous songs of the island, “Corfu, Corfu,” composed by George Katsaros and sung by Rena Vlahopoulou, one of the most famous actresses of the golden age of Greek cinema. Next to the beautiful little island stands the majestic Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna, a small building complex standing by the sea and connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land. Near Pontikonisi, one will find probably the most beautiful park of the island, which used to be the royal estate. The so-called Mon Repo is an excellent example of a manicured garden with an abundance of plants and trees. Here, visitors can also explore remnants of ancient Corfu, historically called Paleopolis.
Just outside Corfu town is the Kapodistrias Museum. In the area of Evropouloi and, more specifically, in Koukouritsa, the family estate now exhibits personal belongings of the first Governor of Greece, collections, and archives relating to his life and achievements. Further north of Evropouloi village, just a few meters from the coastal settlement of Kontokali, stands the settlement of Danilia, also known as the Village of Boua. Danilia is a replica of a typical Corfiot village of the 1930s and has been used in various TV series such as The Durells.
South of Corfu town lies one of the most beautiful villages on the island, Gastouri, just beyond which stands the Achilleion Palace, one of the most famous royal mansions in Europe. It was built at the end of the 19th century by Princess Sissy of Austria-Hungary. Its architecture is truly unparalleled. Within its halls and gardens are two statues of Achilles, remarkable sculptures that are well worth seeing up close for their artistry and historical significance.
Central Corfu boasts the island’s richest history and holds many of its most significant architectural and cultural treasures. If you are a lover of exploration and discovery, it is worth taking a stroll through the center of the old town and wandering through the countryside to discover all the secrets of Corfu’s rural landscape.