A Walk through the Ages in Corfu
Home loving and welcoming are the only words that can really capture the essence of the Ionian island of Corfu! Numerous civilisations passed through the island, each leaving behind traces of their existence, still standing today. The Byzantines, Italians and French claimed the island and built their own palaces, castles and other inspiring structures and temples, leaving the island with a multicultural flair and amazing mix of architecture. Rather than tear down these buildings that past nations left as their legacy, Corfu has successfully preserved them as a reminder of their turbulent as well as victorious past and cultural heritage.
During antiquity the Greeks built various monuments and other important structures that are still standing proudly in Corfu. One of the most preferred Greek landmarks is Menekrates Tomb, which is a circular structure found within an ancient necropolis. The structure was constructed in honour of Menekrates, a noble Corfiot man who died at sea. Corfu’s inspirational Archaeological Museum showcases remains excavated from the burial ground including a fabulous lion sculpture and a marvellous fountain.
Corfu’s mix of architectural styles originates from nations which ruled over the island during different periods in the past. Corfu never came under the rule of the Ottoman Empire, which is an incredible fact, as the majority of Greek islands had been conquered by the Ottomans at some point in time. Nonetheless, the island fell under the Italian, French and Byzantine rule and as such, its culture and architecture were influenced. Liston, which is a marvellous example of the French influence, was constructed during the 1800s as a miniature version of the French Rue De Rivoli. The impressive and aristocratic building is made up of a series of arches and columns. Currently, Liston is the hottest spot to have a coffee and watch the world go by!
The 15th century Old Fortress was built by the Venetians and is one of the most impressive of its kind throughout Europe. It’s hard not to notice as it is the first thing travellers see as they approach the island’s main port, standing on a rocky peninsula. The Venetians constructed the castle to protect the island from invading raids. In an attempt to make it more secure, the Venetians added an artificial fosse, so as to separate the castle from the mainland of Corfu. At the time, they connected a movable bridge so as to allow access from and to the fort. t
Construction of the New Fort began is 1577 by the Venetians and ended a decade later in 1588. It was originally constructed by the Venetians and later renovated by the French and British. The New Fort is much smaller in size than the island’s Old Fort, but regardless of its size it proved to be invincible to the Turkish raids and attacks in 1716. The two-storey castle protected both the harbour and city back in the days.
The Castle of Angels, or rather Angelokastro, is amongst the most celebrated Byzantine forts in the world. The dominating castle lies on the highest peak of the island, amongst the angels, which is probably the origin of its name. The mere construction of the castle is incredible considering the height it was built on as well as its location. The views from the Castle of Angels are breathtaking a totally worth your visit!
Old Perithia is Corfu’s oldest village, which has remained untouched by the passage of time ever since the 14th century. Those seeking to wander through its timeless alleys are in for a real time capsule adventure through time! Currently, the entire ancient village is a Heritage Protected Site and Area of Natural Beauty. Old Perithia is made up of approximately 140 picturesque homes which are surrounded by 8 imposing churches and breathtaking green landscapes!
There are lots to do and see when in Corfu, so pick your Louis Hotel and off you go to explore! Which will it be this year, LTI Louis Grand Hotel, Louis Corcyra Beach, TUI FAMILY LIFE Kerkyra Golf, PrimaSol Louis Ionian Sun?