In the center of the Adriatic Sea there is Corfu, one of the Ionian Islands. The Greek island of Corfu, also known as Kerkyra, has already been under the control of a lot of many different cultures and nations, knowing it a cultured and fascinating history. Corfu Town is the largest town on the island, but there are plenty of historic landmarks, fishing villages, religious structures and beaches that attract visitors. Go closer to look at the top attractions in Corfu in order to see all that this Greek island has in store.
Probably the most beautiful of the churches on the island of Corfu is the Saint Spyridon Church, that was constructed in the 1580s. It boasts the largest bell tower in the Ionian Islands, and it is located in the center of Old Town Corfu. The church is the houses a collection of relics from St. Spyridon, which belonged to the Voulgaris family up to the 16th century. The church’s crypt is also the houses the remains of the saint himself in a double sarcophagus. Venetian made of silver and stunning paintings decorate the church, making it a truly amazing interior that even those without religious affiliation will appreciate.
The tallest peak in all of Corfu is Mount Pantokrator, making the mountain the easily identifiable landmark for residents and visitors alike. From the summit of the peak, it is also possible to see all of Corfu in one panoramic view, and even Albania can be spotted off in the far away. Hiking to the summit of Mount Pantokrator needs an average of two hours for a reasonably fit adult, but it is possible to drive to the top. A 17th century church stands near the summit, telling visitors about the strong connection between mountains and gods in Greek culture.
For anyone who interested in history, or anyone simply amazed by the traditional culture of the island, one of the top attractions in Corfu is Old Perithia. This village is the oldest village that remains in Corfu, though it is almost completely abandoned. It is located at the base of Mount Pantokrator, the town was founded as a secure location offering vantage points to the sea but can’t be seen from the beach. Old Perithia still boasts eight churches and for more than 100 traditional Corfiot homes. Travelers can walk through Old Perithia and see some of the few locals that still mention the village home, eat at the few tavernas in the village and watch the sheep roam among the fig and cherry trees.
On the easternmost point of the peninsula where Corfu Town is located stands the Old Fortress of Corfu. Known to Greeks as the Paleo Frourio, the incredible medieval structure which was built in 1546 when the Venetians ruled over the island. The history of the site goes back even further, yet, as a Byzantine castle one stood where the fortress is recently located. Separated from the town by a moat, the Old Fortress boasts two small peaks, or korypha, that are fully responsible for the island’s name of Corfu. Inside the fortress, visitors will see several British structures, such as the Church of St. George, which were installed in the place of the original Venetian buildings.
The northeast section of Corfu is home to Kassiopi, a scenic coastal resort that is famous with travelers from around the world. Brits, in special case, gravitate to the resort’s large beaches, fabulous eateries and relaxed atmosphere. Kassiopi is known to have been founded in the third century BC, and a Byzantine fortress still stands on a hill overlooking the town and its coasts. On the pebble beach, all kinds of recreational activities are provided, letting visitors enjoy parasailing, horseback riding, scuba diving and swimming.