Paleopolis in Corfu – a Definite Must-Visit!

No holiday in Corfu is complete without visiting the ancient site of Paleopolis (old city). Let’s explore the most fascinating attractions of the ancient city.

The Gattilusi Towers were the medieval fortification of the ancient city. They were named after the family that constructed them in 1431-3 A.D. the purpose the towers were built was to protect the island against the Venetian and Turkish invasions. The towers still stand proudly on the north-eastern corner of the ancient Walls of the city. To strengthen their defence, the three dominating towers were surrounded by a moat.

It is said that the ancient city was inhabited right until the late Byzantine period. Upon visiting Paleopolis, visitors realise that almost nothing remains intact besides the ancient Walls which surrounded the city. The well-preserved city Walls were built out of stone blocks between the 6^th-3^rd century. According to excavations, the Sanctuary of the Gods was positioned outside of the city Walls.

The Monument of Niki of Samothraki used to face the north part of the ancient city, where her statue was connected to the prow of a ship. Currently, the statue of Niki is part of the Louvre’s collection. The Monument of Niki was built in the 2^nd century and many expert archaeologists believe that a fountain used to be the base of the monument.

The Sacred Circle resembles a small amphitheatre having a circular shape with five encircling steps. On these steps spectators stood to either watch or participate in the events that were presented in the centre on the Sacred Circle. The Sacred Circle is believed to have been built at the end of the 5^th or the beginning of the 4^th century B.C.

The Tholos of Arsinoe is aid to be the largest-sized building known to this day originating from ancient Greece. It is believed to have been constructed between 288-281 B.C, by Queen Arsinoe, the wife of King Lysimachos, who dedicated it to the Greek Gods!

The Anaktoron is believed to have been built during the Imperial period, around the 1^st century A.D.  and was used for initiation. That is, this is the spot where ancient civilisations were initiated into the first degree of the Mysteries, which were named Myesis.

Paleopolis is indeed a historic treasure that must be visited!