Corfu Town (Kerkyra)

Corfu Town is a very unique Greek town. Corfu, or Kerkyra in Greek, has been ruled by many European powers over the centuries, and each has impacted on the architecture and culture of the town. When you explore the town you will see how the Sicilian, Venetian, French and English cultures have all played a big part in what Corfu Town is today.

 

The centre of modern Corfu Town is spread around two very different fortresses. The Old Fortress was designed to defend the inhabitants of the fortress, while the New Fortress was built to defend the inhabitants of Corfu. Today these two structures are considered the most important buildings in the town, and are an example of how European powers changed Corfu. 

 

Old Fortress of Corfu Town

In the northern part of the city, the Old Fortress is separated from the narrow streets of Corfu Town by a moat. It is quieter than the rest of Corfu Town and a great spot to admire the view over the city. The fortress is also surrounded by tree-lined parks making it one of the most beautiful stops in town. 

 

Corfu Town's New Fortress

The New Fortress in the southern part of the city was completed in 1588 by the Venetians, and was designed to protect the town’s population. The significance of the fortress was not lost on other conquerers of Corfu, with both the French and English adding further fortification to the fortress. Two of the four original gates still stand, but are now flooded with tourists rather than conquering armies. 

Old Corfu Town

Surrounding the fortresses is the old town with its impressive and picturesque narrow streets and laneways. In 2007, the old town was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List - such is the beauty and significance of Corfu’s old districts.

Some of the buildings were lost during the second world war when the town was bombed, but many of the buildings have been standing for centuries and are a living history of the region. 

It is in the streets where visitors can appreciate the Venetian influence on the town, with the tall apartments, arches and streetscape architecture. Corfu Town has a heavy Italian influence and is considered by many Greeks to be the most beautiful town in Greece.

 

The Squares of Corfu Town 

It is in the centre of Corfu Town where visitors can see the French influence. The Spianada Square, or the  Esplanade, was opened to the public during French rule and the gardens are heavily influenced by the French landscape style. The square is the largest in Greece and is a popular attraction.  

The square is surrounded by restaurants and cafes, again a legacy of  the French.
 

On the northern edge of the Esplanade is an impressive building - the Palace of Saint Michael and Saint Georges. The building was constructed in 1824 during the English rule of Corfu and is classic Georgian architecture. It is a very impressive and prestigious building, and was once the home of the Greek royal family. It now houses the Museum of Asiatic Art and the city library.

Another beautiful building in the Esplanade is the Liston on the western edge of the square. Constructed in 1807 the Liston, formally Corfu’s town hall, has a striking resemblance to architecture commonly found in Paris. The similarities are particularly obvious at night when the building is lit up to enhance the arch features and create beautiful shadowing. Here you will find some very elegant cafes and restaurants.

The Esplanade is only one of the interesting squares that are spread around town. Two other squares of note are the Square of the Saint and Town Hall square. 

The Square of the Saint is bordered by three of the most impressive churches in the town, Church of Saint Spiridon, Church of the Blessed Virgin of Strangers and Church of Saint John. Each of the three churches has a unique façade, making the square a must-see for any visitor to Corfu.

The Town Hall Square was once a meeting place for nobles.  Despite all the influences from European powers, there are many sections of the town that reflect its Greek heritage.

 

Mandouki

In the old town the neighbourhood of Mandouki is filled with traditional Greek restaurants and cafés serving mostly traditional foods. The people of Mandouki maintained their strong Greek heritage and fought against the French during their occupation of this small island. The buildings in this neighbourhood are well-preserved.

 

 

 

Ionian University

The Ionian University was opened in 1984 in recognition of Corfu's contribution to education. The university is a tribute to the Ionian Academy, which was the first university in Greece. The original Ionian Academy was constructed in 1824, but the building was almost completely destroyed by German bombs in the Second World War.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Modern Corfu Town

Everywhere visitors look they see living examples of Corfu’s long and complex history, but the town is not a museum. Corfu Town has a population of around 40,000 and is the main port to the island. 

You will often find traditional tavernas, bars, sophisticated restaurants and cafés filled with tourists, locals and students. There is something for everyone in Corfu Town - from theatre to live music and discos. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corfu Accommodation

Accommodation in Corfu is diverse and easy to find. Corfu has drawn travellers for many centuries and the local people are passionate hosts. So whether you are looking for a luxurious hotel or budget self-contained apartment, Corfu has the accommodation to suit your preference.