From the first moment the visitor arrives in Corfu, the special character of this hospitable island is evident. The natural and town environments reveal their charm at first glance and invite the visitor to discover their beauty.
Even the most talented artist would have difficulty painting a more magical setting than the Old Town of Corfu!
The Old Town developed spontaneously, growing with the needs of everyday life and in defence against hostile invaders.
The two mighty fortresses, the sea walls between them, the entrance gates and the remains of the land walls tell the story of Corfu’s need for protection from the furious Ottoman attacks. Yet despite constant and concerted efforts, the Ottomans never conquered Corfu.
Thus, through the Venetian patrons who took care of its defence, Corfu was always coloured by Western civilisation. The influence of Venice, which continued Corfu’s patronage for 411 years, is evident everywhere: in architecture, town planning, cuisine, customs, even in the local folklore. The speech of the Corfiots differs from the other Greeks even to the ears of foreigners.
Corfu remained under Venetian protection, leaving it unaffected by the eastern culture that prevailed in the rest of Greece and two important elements of its Greek character remained untouched: the language and the orthodox faith. It did, however, ensure an interaction with the West and over the centuries it formed a distinct, charming idiosyncrasy.
Other western peoples who left their mark in Corfu are the French and the British. The emblematic Liston building, built by order of Napoleon the Great, is strongly reminiscent of the Rue de Rivoli. The Palace of St Michael and St George, built by the British in the early 19th century, lends some of British glamour to the northern part of the city overlooking the blue sea.
Corfuting guided tours were created with all the historical knowledge and passion that Corfu inspires in people.
Choose the guided tour of your preference and get to know the streets, the monuments, the flavours and the people that make the island of Corfu unforgettable!
