Greek name for the island of Corfu. All about the seas of Greece

Basic moments

Once in Corfu, you will feel the breath of Italy everywhere. Narrow streets, across which ropes with linen are stretched, wrought-iron balconies twined with greenery, resemble southern cities this country. In restaurants, the menu always has spaghetti and pizza, and in small towns arias from Italian operas are often heard from open windows, performed by musically gifted locals.

Love for poetry and music is manifested even in the local dialect - a melodic language, a middle ground between Greek and Italian, the conversation in which is necessarily accompanied by theatrical gestures. It is worth saying that the inhabitants of other parts of Greece consider the inhabitants of Corfu to be somewhat eccentric.

The Greeks themselves, paying tribute to the mythological tradition, call the island of Kerkyra. That was the name of the daughter of the Greek deity Asop and the river nymph Metope. Poseidon, the god of the sea, in love with Kerkyra, stole it and transferred it to an island of marvelous beauty, hitherto unknown, which has since been named after the beauty.

According to Homer, the first inhabitants of the island were the Faeci, a glorious people of seafarers. According to legend, they owe their name to the son of Poseidon and Kerkyra - Theak.

Other legends are connected with the island of Corfu: the Argonauts, returning from a campaign for the Golden Fleece, celebrated the wedding of Jason and Medea here; Odysseus was thrown onto the shore of Kerkyra after a shipwreck, where he was found by Nausicaa, the beautiful daughter of King Alcinous.

blessed island

Corfu captivates with its beauty at first sight. Looking at the island from the window of an airliner, you will be amazed by its extraordinary emerald color. He is the personification of the generous nature of the island. Luxurious orange orchards, shady centuries-old olive groves founded under the Venetians, vineyards, picturesque coastline, indented with coves and bays, awaken the imagination and set in a romantic mood.

Two high mountain ranges divide Corfu into three parts, the northern one is mountainous, the central one is hilly, and the southern one is low-lying. Such a landscape gives the island additional charm and gives variety to beach lovers: you can sunbathe on one of the crowded long sandy beaches or retire to some cozy rocky bay.

The climate here is Mediterranean: mild, subtropical. Summer in Corfu is about +30 °С, winter +10 °С. It is rainy from September to March.

History of Corfu

The geographical position of the island has long determined its military-strategic and commercial importance, which turned Kerkyra into an arena of violent historical events and military confrontations.

In the VIII century BC. e. Kerkyra became a Corinthian colony and became an important center of trade. But the inhabitants of the island rebelled against the conquerors and united with Athens, concluding a military alliance with the great city. During the Peloponnesian War, Kerkyra served as a naval base for the Athenians. During the entire Hellenistic period, the island was regularly attacked, and in 229 BC. e. it fell under the rule of the Romans, who also used Corfu as a military base.

After the collapse of the Roman Empire in 395 CE, e. the island remained part of the Eastern Roman Empire, which later became the Byzantine Empire. It was during the Byzantine period that the island began to be called "Korifo" (in Greek - "city of mountains"), at the same time the Latin name of the island arose - "Corfu". Being under the rule of Byzantium, the island survived the invasions of the Vandals, Huns and Goths. Fearing the next invasion of the conquerors, the inhabitants were forced to move their capital to the rock, where the old fort is currently located.

In 1386, Corfu fell under the rule of the Venetians, whose rule here lasted more than four hundred years. During this period, the Ottoman Turks repeatedly tried to conquer it. During one of the sieges, in 1537, Turkish troops managed to capture part of the island, as a result of which a huge part of the population of Corfu was captured and taken to the Ottoman Empire.

During the Venetian rule, the inhabitants of the island were divided into three classes: the aristocracy, the bourgeoisie and the people. The aristocracy was recorded in the Golden Book. The title was hereditary. Wealthy people were bilingual, Greek and Italian, and often educated in Venice and Padua. This era still defines the image of Corfu, which intertwined the influence of classical Greek culture with Italian romanticism.

In 1797, ordinary people of Corfu, dissatisfied with the privileges for the aristocracy and the bourgeoisie, gladly greeted the French soldiers sent by Napoleon to conquer the island. On the central square their capital, the city of Corfu, they, together with the French, burned the "Golden Book" and planted a tall tree of freedom. However, on the island you can still meet frank snobs, who are descendants of families that were once listed in the Golden Book.

During the Napoleonic wars, falling on the period 1798-1800, Corfu was stormed by the combined Russian-Turkish squadron led by Admiral Fyodor Ushakov.

In 1815, by decision of the Congress of Vienna, along with other Ionian Islands, Corfu came under the rule of Great Britain, but the empire left a certain independence to the indigenous population. Lord Giford, Commissioner of the British Army, founded a university here, where the famous Greek poet and patriot Andreas Kalvos and the author of the national Greek anthem, the founder of modern Greek poetry, Dionysis Solomos, later studied.

In 1864, after the formation of the Greek state, Corfu was presented by Great Britain to the Greek king George I.

For a long time, rest on this romantic island was the privilege of the aristocracy and bohemians, but today its sandy beaches, turquoise coves, olive groves and ancient palaces have become part of the infrastructure of mass tourism. However, in Corfu you can always find a secluded place. To do this, it is enough to rent a car and go on a trip along one of the wonderfully equipped roads.

Corfu town

Main city islands - Corfu (or Kerkyra) - located on its eastern coast in the foothills. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities Greece. The breath of different historical epochs is everywhere felt here, and the architectural traditions of different peoples are harmoniously combined in its magnificent architecture. Byzantine churches are adjacent to medieval fortresses and magnificent Venetian staircases, and houses with Neapolitan flavor - with French-style colonnades and arcades.

The British, on the other hand, left beautiful architectural structures and their national tradition, the game of cricket, as a legacy to the people of Corfu. International competitions in this sport are held directly on the city square of Spianada. It is also worth noting that the locals speak English at a fairly good level.

City attractions

The historical center of Corfu is protected by the state and is a pedestrian zone. In 2007 he was listed world heritage UNESCO. This is a very picturesque and original part of the city. Here you can wander for hours, as if through a maze, which is decorated with charming high buildings, cute restaurants and cafes, souvenir shops.

Walks are especially good in the early morning, when the ancient streets are not yet filled with noisy crowds of tourists. Walk along the old narrow street of Teotoki, turn onto Filelion street to admire its old-timer - house number 18, built in 1497. If you get lost and start arguing loudly among yourselves about where to go next, the shutters will probably open on the ground floor of one of the houses, and the owners will kindly show you the way.

Take a look at one of the churches, where you will be hospitably greeted by a priest, and be sure to visit the church of St. Spyridon the Wonderworker, the patron saint of the city. It is located in the thick of the streets of the Old Town, and its high bell tower with a red top can be seen from everywhere.

The church was erected in 1590. Bishop Spyridon himself lived in the 4th century, and there is no reliable evidence of his connection with the island of Corfu. However, his remains, stored in Constantinople, were transferred to Corfu after the Turks captured the Byzantine capital in 1453. According to legend, they were given to an unknown wealthy family with the condition that in each of its generations one of the members of the family would be a priest.

The relics were in the family church until the townspeople raised funds and erected a cathedral worthy of a miracle worker. The temple has become one of the richest in the region: here you can see a luxurious marble iconostasis, a vault in medallion icons enclosed in gilded frames, noble wooden carved chairs along the walls. The relics of the saint are in a silver shrine decorated with enamel icons.

For centuries, not only Orthodox, but also Catholics donated to the cathedral. Numerous donations were made by the Russian imperial house of the Romanovs: especially large contributions were made by Catherine II and Paul I.

Often there is an endless queue to the relics of St. Spyridon, because believers believe that they really have miraculous abilities, as they saved the island four times: once from hunger, twice from plague, and again from the Turks. Here it is even customary to swear by the name of a saint, thereby expressing one's respect for him.

Residents of Corfu and tourists love to spend time on Spianada, the largest square in the city. In its northern part is the palace of St. Michael and St. George, built in 1819 for the highest ranks of the British army. Today it houses the Museum of Asian Art, one of the best museums of Asian art in Europe. Here you can admire a wonderful exposition of ancient Chinese art, including a collection of Chinese lacquer miniatures, get acquainted with Japanese and Indian art, see exhibits from Central Asia. All art objects are located in a well-designed and truly sophisticated interior. From palace park offers a magnificent panorama of the sea. The price of tickets to the museum is quite democratic - 3 €.

On the south side of the square, there is a stage where concerts are held in the evenings and musical performances. It's nice to spend time at one of the many tables under open sky.

Opposite the square is a fortress, one of the most beautiful in Greece. The stronghold was erected by the Venetians in the 14th century and fortified in 1546. It is located on a high rocky cape, separated from the city by a moat through which a bridge is laid. On the territory of the fortress, you can visit the beautiful church of St. George, built by the British, see the barracks and military weapons, and admire the panorama that opens from here. Not far from the old fortress in 1576-1588. a new fort was built to protect the city from a possible Turkish attack. A visit to each of these attractions will cost you 7 €.

The history of the island can be found in Archaeological Museum Corfu. The exposition presented here covers the period from prehistoric times to the Roman era. Pay attention to the sculptural image of a lion (7th century BC), the pediment of the Temple of Artemis with the image of the terrible Gorgon Medusa and the pediment of the archaic era, representing the feast of Dionysus. Before visiting the museum, check its opening hours, as Lately it is not always open.

During the Venetian rule, the main political, administrative and cultural center the city of Corfu was the Town Hall Square. In 1663, a Loggia (gallery) was built here, where the elite of the city, including Venetian officers, gathered. In 1720 the building housed Opera theatre- Nobile Teatro di San Giacomo, since 1903 the City Hall has been located here.

Also on the square are Cathedral St. James and St. Christopher, next to it is the building of the former residence of the Archbishop of Corfu, which now houses a branch of the Bank of Greece.

Southern part of Corfu

Heading south of the island from the city of Corfu, you will find yourself on the Kanoni peninsula. It is located 5 km from the city center. The coastline of the peninsula is magnificent and the beaches are simply amazing.

From here you have a beautiful view of the islets of Vlaherna and Pondikonisi. On the first of them is a miniature monastery of Panagia Blachernon, built in the 17th century. The island is connected to the mainland by a long narrow pier.

Pondikonisi (Mouse Island) is located 800 meters from the coast of the island. According to legend, Pondikonisi is the petrified ship of Odysseus, turned by the ruler of the seas, Poseidon, into a rocky island. If you happen to be in this place, visit a small Byzantine church of the 11th-12th centuries, hidden in the shade of cypresses. The island can be reached by boat.

Kanoni is charming at any time of the day, but especially beautiful at sunset, when the sun sinks into the deep blue sea waters and its orange-purple rays reflect in the sky.

After driving 10 km south of Corfu town, you will find yourself in the picturesque village of Gastouri. Here, on the top of the hill, there is a magnificent palace building - Achilleion. This romantic place for her residence was chosen by Elisabeth of Austria (better known as Princess Sisi), wife of the Emperor of Austria-Hungary Franz Joseph I.

Elizabeth, who was fascinated by the island and considered it the most beautiful place in the world, was fond of Greek history and culture, so the style based on ancient Greek mythology was used in the construction and design of the palace. The residence itself was named after Elizabeth's favorite character, Achilles. The palace was built in 1892 according to the project of the talented Italian architect Rafael Caritto, and the German sculptor Ernst Getter was engaged in the design.

Achilleion was later bought by the German Emperor Wilhelm II. Today the palace is open to the public and is considered one of the most striking sights of Corfu. Its interior impresses with its luxury: you can admire exquisite wall paintings, original carved furniture, a fireplace made of black Italian marble, walk along a wide marble staircase, at the foot of which there are statues of Zeus and Hera. Look into the small Catholic chapel and Personal Area Wilhelm II.

No less impressive is the landscaped palace garden, which overlooks the island of Pondikonisi. In the shade of palms and lemon trees, beautiful sculptures are located here, among which is the “Dying Achilles” by Ernst Geter. One of the episodes of the epic film about James Bond was filmed in this garden.

Currently, the palace is state property. For a long time there was a casino here, but today it has been moved to the Hilton Hotel. In order to comfortably view Achilleion, it is better to come here early, at 8-9 in the morning. Ticket price for adults - 6 €, for a child - 3 €.

The old fishing village of Benitses is located 12 km from the main town of the island. For a long time, he had the dubious fame of a hot spot thanks to the noisy companies of the British, who "occupied" its beach and bars, which are not lacking here. But today Benitses has almost got rid of this image. Now it is quite quiet and peaceful here. Not so long ago, the beach of the village received the Blue Flag from the European Union for crystal clear sea water.

Benitses village in Corfu

The coastal village of Moraitika is located 2 km from the village of Benitses. Its beach is considered by many to be the best of all, located between Corfu and the south point islands - Kavos. It is crowded here, and the coast itself is very densely built up with bars, restaurants and shops. But just a 10-minute walk from the beach inland, a different atmosphere reigns. The quiet streets and steep lanes of Moraitika are almost deserted and very picturesque.

Moraitiki beach after sunset

Nearby is another village - Messonghi. This delightful village is surrounded by olive trees and has a much calmer beach than the neighboring one, although there is no shortage of hotels and taverns.

One of the most beautiful places on the coast is the beach of Agios Georgios. He was also awarded blue flag and is considered one of the cleanest in Europe. The sandy shore of the beach is bordered by massive rocks and boulders, among which you can find many secluded bays and beaches "for two". South part shallow shores are perfect for families with children, and lovers active rest prefer north coast deep sea and waves.

On the organized beach areas for the services of vacationers - sun loungers, parasols, showers, taverns and small bars. And remote parts of the beach are great for badminton, volleyball and even football. Here you can rent a boat and go on a mini-cruise along the coast, discovering picturesque tiny deserted bays and uninhabited islands.

The capital of the plain south is the city of Lefkimi, the second largest locality islands after Corfu. It is located in a fertile green valley surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. This is a classic Greek town, whose appearance is formed by pretty stone houses, ancient churches and monasteries, beautiful squares and narrow streets.

6 km from Lefkimi, on the southernmost tip of the island, is located resort town Kavos, which is the true center of active recreation and nightlife in Corfu.

Beyond it, a coastal path takes you through the unspoiled countryside around the village of Spartera, from which you can reach the picturesque cliffs of Cape Asprokavos and the nearby monastery of Arkoudillas in half an hour. It's nice to spend a day on a deserted beach or walk to wild coast Ayi-Gordis-Paleochoriou.

The southernmost tip of Corfu is very popular with yachtsmen and windsurfers. They love this corner for constant winds and a picturesque view of the coast.

Northern part of Corfu

The north of Corfu is famous for its unique landscape, which is given a special flavor by picturesque wooded mountains and a rocky coastline. Some places are not suitable for all beach lovers, but there are enough resort villages, charming pebble bays, and the sea is striking in its purity.

Many couples with children prefer to relax in Dassia. This fairly quiet resort is located near the ancient village of the same name. Its name translates as "forest" and speaks for itself: olive and cypress groves approach the very beach of Dassia and pine forests. Here you can find both sandy and pebbly beaches. All of them are well equipped and well maintained.

A little to the north is the resort of Ipsos. It belongs to the most visited corners of Corfu by tourists. This is not the best place to relax with children, but those who like to spend time in bars and have fun at night will not be bored in Ipsos. The beach here is pebbly and quite long.

The resort of Nissaki, located at the foot of Mount Pantokrator, also boasts wonderful pebble beaches and the cleanest, azure sea. The road leading from here to Kassiopi rises uphill, and here a wonderful panorama opens up before you: on the left side, Mount Pantokrator, the highest point on the island (914 m), and on the right side, the mountainous coasts of Albania. From the top of the mountain, where a small cafe is located, a stunning view opens up not only of the entire island: on clear days you can see the Italian coast, despite the fact that it is 130 km from Corfu.

The village of Kassiopi is located on the site of a former Roman settlement, where Cicero and Ptolemy visited. Nero himself came to these parts to play the lyre in front of the temple of Zeus, and the inhabitants crowned him with a laurel wreath. Today in Kassiopi you can visit the ruins of a medieval fort and the church of Panagia Kasopitra, built in 1580 on the site where the first church of Corfu stood.

Paleokastritsa, Corfu

At the northernmost tip of the island are the resorts of Roda, with one of the island's most beautiful sandy beaches, and Sidari, whose sandy coastline lies at the foot of cliffs dotted with grottoes. Here you can take a boat and walk on it to the Love Canal or get to the miniature fishing island of Erikus, where, by the way, there is a small hotel.

Western part of Corfu

One of the most popular beaches on the west coast of the island is Glyfada. It is located at the foot of the hill, where one of the most beautiful settlements of Corfu, Pelekas, is located. Glyfada is a long, very wide strip of golden sand, bordered mountain slopes, which are buried in the greenery of centuries-old trees. The beach fell in love with young people who come here from all over Europe to the now popular beach parties. But this is quite a suitable place for families with children: the sand on the beach is soft, silky, and the sea near the coast is shallow.

Nearby are the delightful beaches of Mirtiotis and Kontos Gialos, a favorite place for nudists.

In the afternoon, hike up to Pelekas (3 km up the hill) for a spectacular sunset view.

North of Pelekas is the resort of Ermones. His sand beach, located under a rocky cliff, surrounded by forest. Here is a golf club - Corfu Golf, which attracts fans of the status of the game from all over Europe.

The pearl of Corfu is Paleokastritsa. One of the most beautiful places in all of Greece. First, you should admire them from a place called "bella vista" - it is located above the village of Lacones, then go down to the bay with crystal azure water, where a 13th-century fort rises. In Paleokastritsa you can enjoy your holidays in picturesque bays formed by rocky capes, or on excellent sandy and pebble beaches bathed in crystal clear waters Adriatic Sea. Boat excursions are popular, during which you can enjoy a magnificent view of the coast, bordered high mountains(cost: 10 € – 40 minutes).

Not far from Paleokastritsa is located the fortress of Angelokastro (“Castle of the Angel”), which is one of the most significant architectural monuments Byzantine era throughout Greece. It is located on top of a cliff and is impregnable fortress, which served as one of the most important strategic fortifications of Byzantine Corfu. The castle building, which is still undergoing archaeological and reconstruction work, is open to tourists from May to October. The cost of entrance tickets is 3 €. On Mondays, the fortress is closed to the public.

At the foot of the cliff is the Monastery of Our Lady, founded in 1228. It has recently been renovated. Opposite the monastery you will see the “petrokaravo” (ship of stone) – a corsair ship, according to legend, turned into stone by the monks of the monastery. Many archaeologists believe that it was here that the city of Alcinous was located, the place where Nausicaa found Odysseus thrown ashore by the waves of the sea. To get real pleasure from visiting this wonderful corner of Corfu, it is better to come here early in the morning, before the invasion of tourists.

cooking

For travelers who respect delicious and healthy food, Corfu will be a godsend. Among the incredible number of Greek taverns, bars, restaurants, everyone has the opportunity to choose an institution according to their taste and budget. If you want to get acquainted with real Greek cuisine, give preference to those places where the Greeks themselves dine.

Of the vegetable dishes, the Greeks are especially fond of those containing eggplant, which are cooked here in all sorts of ways. Tomatoes, cucumbers, artichokes, peppers and beans are also popular. It is impossible to count the names of vegetable salads. Grape leaves and tomatoes stuffed with meat or rice are incredibly good.

It is better to treat yourself to traditional Greek fish dishes in specialized psarotavernas, which are located on the sea coast. There is a large selection of fresh fish prepared in various ways. Choose between fried, stewed, baked, stuffed, smoked, hot, cold, salted, dried. Mussels in sauce, oysters, octopuses, cuttlefish are incredibly good - such a treat, accompanied by a vegetable salad, will cost about 45 € for two. Fish dishes are significantly cheaper. Portions in all establishments are very large.

Meat dishes are worth tasting in taverns. Beef stewed in pots and rabbit with wine, flavored with a whole scattering of spices, are very popular. Gourmets are also pleased with meat cooked according to an old recipe on a spit rotating over a smoldering coal. All dishes are served with the freshest bread and, of course, olives, which are the No. 1 treat here.

The meal here ends with dessert. It can be fruits, berries, puff pastry treats - filo baklava (rolls stuffed with nuts, honey).

The most common drink on the island is coffee. It is cooked in different ways - strong and not very strong (cost - 2-4 €). Greeks also love iced frappe coffee. Among other drinks - juices, fresh juices, mineral water.

In Corfu, you can treat yourself to excellent red and white wines made from grapes grown in different corners Greece. Those who like stronger drinks prefer raki, ouzo, delicious tinctures and liquors.

Transport

You can move around Corfu by different modes of transport: by taxi, rented car, municipal buses.

When using taxi services, check the price and route in advance and clearly stipulate everything, otherwise you will have to overpay with a vengeance. Taxi fare from Corfu to one of resort towns, located half an hour away, will cost about 25 €.

You can make the same trip on the municipal bus (they are blue here) for 2.5 €.

And to make your holiday truly successful, and you can see everything that is interesting on the island, it is better to rent a car. You can rent a car with an automatic transmission for 45-60 € per day. Rent for four days will cost approximately 160 €. The cost of 1 liter of gasoline on the island is 1-1.10 €.

Today, ATV rentals are very popular in Corfu. You will get incredible pleasure from such a ride if you love speed and the smell of a salty refreshing wind. This pleasure will cost you 15-25 € per day, depending on the power of the ATV.

Drive any vehicle you should be very careful in Corfu - the Greeks themselves are not very careful on the road, although the fines for breaking the rules here are incredibly high: you may be required to run a red light for 750 €, for an unfastened seat belt - 350 €, for parking in the city in the wrong place – 250 €.

View from the embankment of Kerkyra

Where to stay

Corfu is a world-famous resort, so all famous chain hotels are represented here. In addition, in Corfu you can stay in small cozy hotels, apartments, campsites. The price traditionally depends on the proximity to the sea.

The cost of living in a five-star hotel on the first coastline starts from 80-125 € per day, in hotels of 3-4 stars in the city of Corfu - from 35-50 €. The most economical accommodation on the island is hotels on the third coastline, located a half-hour walk to the beaches, as well as hotels in remote corners of the southern part of Corfu. The average price of living in them is from 25-30 € per day.

Many families with children, as well as young people, prefer to stay in apartments where it is possible to organize their own meals, depending on financial capabilities. Accommodation in apartments 30-50 meters from the sea will cost an average of 35-50 €. The price includes the use of Wi-Fi, satellite dish, washing machine. The presence of a swimming pool can increase the cost of living.

As in any other resort, prices in Corfu skyrocket during the high season, which starts here in June and ends in the first half of September.

How to get there

Tourists from Russia, as a rule, get to Corfu by charter flights. They depart from Moscow, St. Petersburg, and there are also flights from some other major cities during the season.

The cost of an air ticket for a charter flight on the route Moscow - Corfu starts from 7 thousand rubles. Prices in various airlines different from each other. It depends on the aircraft class and travel time (from 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours). The airport on the island of Corfu is located 3 km from its capital.

You can also opt for a regular Aegean Airlines flight from Moscow with a connection in Athens.

If you decide to get to Corfu from Athens, it is best to opt for a ferry (from 37 €). You will have an unforgettable experience sea ​​travel: in good weather you can admire the smooth line of the Greek coastline, picturesque brown cliffs immersed in bright greenery, and the blue sea with many islands.

What is the island of Corfu famous for? Peculiarities local beaches, resorts and hotels. What is good about a holiday in Corfu, what to do, what to see. Photos and reviews.

Corfu is a picturesque Greek island in the Ionian Sea, a small piece of sickle-shaped land that is diverse flora. Mediterranean pines, mighty oaks, oleanders, orange trees and olive groves are found everywhere. Thanks to the life-giving greenery, Kerkyra (the second name of the island of Corfu) seems fabulous emerald isle. Centuries of rich, sometimes dramatic, history have left indelible traces forever frozen in the stones of ancient temples, in polished cobblestones of pavements, in the walls of fortresses, palaces and mansions.

Corfu island on the map of Greece

Corfu Island - History

Paradise now and then did not give rest to all the "superpowers" of the past. In ancient times, because of the island of Corfu, the Peloponnesian War began between and Sparta. Then the island became part of the Roman Empire. Cicero visited here twice, and Emperor Nero danced in honor of Zeus. At the beginning of the XIV century. The Venetians came to Corfu and ruled the island for 400 years, giving it magnificent architecture. The Most Serene Republic saved Kerkyra from the attack of the Ottomans, so today Corfu is the only Greek territory that has never known Turkish oppression.

Venetian architecture on about. Corfu

Venice was ousted from the island by Napoleon's troops, the French burned the list of noble families and declared Kerkyra a territory.

But Bonaparte's reign was short-lived. The Russian fleet of General Ushakov drove off the French, and the Ionian Republic was soon established. Thus, for the first time after the fall of the Byzantine Empire, Greek statehood was restored. During the British protectorate, a network of roads, an aqueduct and many public buildings were built in Corfu.

Where to stay in Corfu

Most of the island's hotels are located on the seafront and have their own piece of the beach. If you do not plan to swim for one reason or another in sea water, you can stay in Corfu in a hotel with a pool. For children in majority territories hotel complexes playgrounds have been set up.

It remains to choose your hotel among the huge number of proposals on the island of Corfu. Our recommendations for the season2019:

Resorts and beaches of Corfu

The entire 200-kilometer coastline of the island is a series of beautiful pebble and sandy beaches with cozy bays in which bungalows and villas are equipped:

• Greek resort ipsos - perfect place to have an inexpensive vacation in Corfu and be able to comfortably travel around the island. The resort has a good choice inexpensive hotels, long sandy beach and convenient transport interchange;
• One of the best resorts Corfu - fishing village Benitses 12 km from the capital;
• - one of the most famous resorts Corfu Island, because it is there that the "Channel of Love" is located. Tourists without fail strive to get to Sidari at least for a day to soak up the soft sand and enjoy the pristine beauty of this corner of the coast;
• In the western part of Corfu, a town stands out Paleokastritsa surrounded by bizarre rocks. Popular among our compatriots;
• IN Dassia many large hotels, taverns and restaurants and a long pebble beach;
• Resort Rhoda- quiet place for family vacation on the north coast of the island. The pride of this Corfu resort is long sandy beaches and a warm sea with a gentle entry into the water;
• - a paradise for connoisseurs of small villages. On the coast, instead of high-rise hotels, there are small hotels and bungalows where guests know each other by sight. Around - mountain landscapes, greenery, the smell of myrtle and orange trees. Acharavi beach is considered one of the longest in Corfu;
• Golden sand resort Condocalion favored by families with children;
• Nissaki– green resort at the foot mountain range Pantokrator on the northeast coast of Corfu. The place is known for its chamber bays. The beaches of this Corfu resort are covered with snow-white pebbles, the water off the coast is clean and transparent. The picture is complemented by a special microclimate and mountain air;
• Resort Gouvia is located in the eastern part of the island of Corfu, not far from its administrative capital. A small cozy village is surrounded by greenery and offers tourists beach holiday on the coast of a picturesque bay;
• Southern resort Agios Georgios will appeal to connoisseurs of peace and quiet;
• The richest guests rest in the town Comeno.

It should be noted that the island is considered an elite resort with a long bohemian tradition, and many hotels in Corfu have a luxury category. Even the illustrious Queen Elisabeth of Austria loved to relax in Corfu. In 1890, she built the Achilleion Palace, a masterpiece of classical Greek architecture, near the capital. Later, the mansion was bought by the German emperor Wilhelm I, he grew roses in the garden and carried out archaeological excavations in Agia Theodora.

Sights of Corfu

What sights of Corfu are worth seeing, where to look for them on the island and what to look for:

• In the capital of Corfu - Kerkyra - she left a piece of her heart. During the Venetian rule, it was rebuilt old fortress created by the Byzantines on the spot ancient acropolis. new fortress built to protect against the troops of Suleiman the Magnificent. Now under the mighty fortresses there is a parking of yachts. Exhibitions, concerts, as well as performances with Greek folk dances and light shows.

  

• In 1799, Admiral Ushakov, commander of the Russian-Turkish squadron, drove the French from the island of Corfu. So today Russian tourists have the opportunity to amuse the national vanity, walking around monument to F. Ushakov set by the Greek government in 2002.

  

• At the beginning of the XIX century. French architect Lespes created on the main square of Corfu Gallery Liston, the prototype of which was the Parisian shopping mall on Rue Rivoli. Now it houses the most popular cafes and restaurants of Corfu.

  

• The decoration of Spinada Square is Palace of Saints Michael and George in neoclassical style. The building belongs to the Museum of Asian Art. A collection of 10,000 exhibits was donated to the island by Greek diplomats who worked in India and China.

  

Among the islands of the Ionian archipelago, Corfu has always been the most important. Garden Island or "Emerald Paradise of Greece". Turning events took place here that influenced the fate of the region, Greek tourism began to emerge here - from ancient times, the island fell in love with representatives of the aristocracy.

Today the island is a concentration of religious, natural and architectural monuments. Which of these objects are worth seeing during?

Note:

• on the island
• sunbathing in greece

Cathedral of St. Spyridon

The local heavenly patron and the most revered saint is Spyridon Trimifuntsky. The largest cathedral of the island, located in the capital - Kerkyra, is named in his honor. The relics of the saint are kept here, and not only the Greeks themselves, but also numerous pilgrims come to worship them. It is believed that St. Spyridon patronizes in financial matters and has repeatedly saved local residents in difficult times.

The Orthodox church was built in the 16th century in a style atypical for Greece. Its architecture is closer to the Venetian traditions - a common phenomenon for the Ionian archipelago. The decoration of the cathedral is striking in its luxury: here you can see the iconostasis, part of which reaches the ceiling, large chandeliers made of silver and gold, as well as icons in gold frames. The cathedral houses many figurines that parishioners bring as thanks. Another feature of the temple is the wall painting created by the masters of the Ionian school.

Achillion

The palace complex was erected in 1890 and belonged to Queen Elisabeth of Austria. Since the palace was dedicated to Achilles, its architecture has a mythological theme. Welcomes visitors to Achillion big statue ancient Greek hero. Walking around the territory of the complex, you can see statues of other characters of mythology: Athena, Zeus, Hera.

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Inside, the ceiling painting draws attention to itself. It was performed by the Italian Gallopi, who portrayed the goddesses of the seasons. Achillion keeps a lot of personal belongings of the former owners of the palace: portraits, furniture, documents. However, Achillion attracts not only with its architecture and artifacts, but also with its location. It is located on a green hill overlooking a large part of the island and the neighboring islet of Pontikonisi.

Fortress of Angelokastro

Angelokastro is considered an important Byzantine building. This protected acropolis was once a center of trade and flourished in the 13th century. Then there were periods of struggle for Angelokastro: it belonged either to the Angevins and Genoese pirates, or to the Turks.

Today, here you can see the remains of powerful walls, watchtowers, Orthodox churches (in some there are frescoes), living quarters. Ancient Christian tombs have also been found on the acropolis. Another reason to visit Angelokastro is the mountain and sea views. The fortress is open only in the summer season, when the weather is conducive to climbing the hill.

Temple of Kardaki

Not far from Kerkyra there is a Doric monument - Kardaki. This is an archaeological complex, the main object of which was a temple dedicated to Poseidon or Apollo. There is no better preservation on the island ancient temple than Kardaki. Its architecture is dominated by Ionic features - all the surviving columns and the altar are sustained in this style.

Lovers of silence should visit Kardaki: the temple is located in quiet place with lush greenery. And from a height overlooking the Ionian Sea.

Mon Repos Palace

Near the temple of Kardaki is the colonial villa Mon Repos, which is almost 200 years old. In the past, local English governors stayed here, and then representatives of the Greek royal dynasty. The luxurious residence is open to everyone.

After walking through the shady garden, you can go inside, where the museum is located today. It keeps artifacts from all archaeological zones Corfu and from the seabed. Almost all the rooms of Mon Repos have been restored to their original form after restoration: the interior has been restored with original furniture, things and portraits of the previous owners have remained intact. The highlight of the Mon Repos garden is the sea views that open from the hill.

New and Old fortresses

In Kerkyra, two fortresses are well preserved at once. The first is Paleo Frurio, or Old. Both the first Byzantine buildings of the 8th century and later, English ones survived in it. It is located on artificial lake and surrounded by fortifications around the perimeter. Not all monuments have been preserved in Paleo Frurio - many buildings and temples have been destroyed. But in the summer, light and sound shows, dance programs and concerts are arranged inside.

The second fortress of Kerkyra, although called New (Neo Frurio), is interesting ancient architecture. It was built in the 16th century to repel attacks from the sea. The fortress consists of two bastions, the walls of which have preserved images of Venetian lions. You can wander through the endless maze of stairs and tunnels of Neo Frurio, visit the Byzantine Museum, and then climb the tower and enjoy the views.

Spianada Square

In Corfu interesting places at every step. And even the whole square is a real monument of history. Spianada is located in the center of Corfu and is one of the largest European squares. Life is in full swing here: mass celebrations, street concerts, sporting events are held. And for the inhabitants of Corfu Spianada - favorite place for walks.

The most significant city places are gathered around it. Behind rises the fortress of Paleo Frurio, the Museum of Asian Art works, the palace of Michael and George is located. Quite near begins another popular street of Kerkyra - Liston. While walking in Spianada, you can see monuments to famous personalities and events in Greek history.

In the famous work of Homer "The Odyssey" there is a description of the island of Scheria, inhabited by the feaki people. Currently, this land is called Corfu. You need to look for the island of Corfu on the world map near the Greek coast. Its second name is Kerkyra.

Corfu island on the map of the world, Europe and Greece in Russian

Corfu - second largest island in Greece after . Local legend says that next to it are the remains of the flooded ancient ship Odysseus.

Heading from the Odyssey to Ithaca, the mythological hero angered Poseidon and he turned his ship into stone.

General information

The island has a well-developed infrastructure. His dimensions are:

1. width- 32 km;
2. length- 65 km.

The population of the island is over 110 thousand people. The main language of communication on the island is Modern Greek. The resort is dominated by English.

Transport

The island is well developed road network. In the south of the country, the main highway GR-25 passes, and in the north - GR-24. International ferries "Igoumenitsa-Bari" and "Pari-Bari" connect Corfu with Italy.

You can also get to the mainland from the island on high-speed boats with air wings.

From any resort in Corfu you can get to the capital of the island - Kerkyra. Buses operating on the island have blue and green color. "Blue" buses operate on short suburban and urban routes. The interval of their movement is 15-20 minutes. To places on the island remote from Kerkyra, a trip must be made on "green" buses.

Tourism

Tourism as an industry began to develop on the island over 130 years ago. This place is ideal for family holidays. Hotels of various classes are located along the entire coast of the island. The infrastructure of the northern and eastern coasts was seriously worked on by the British during their influence on this land. Thanks to them, it was erected here a large number of expensive villas.

Most popular holiday destinations on the island:

• canoni. Small village by the sea. A narrow strip of land connects it with the Blachernae monastery.
• Paleokastritsa. Favorite resting place for drivers. The resort is famous for its sandy beaches.
• Sidari. A place for noisy youth parties and outdoor activities.

In the northeast of the island are the old Venetian shipyards. They are among the local attractions. The National Art Gallery is located in the same area.

The main holiday destination in Corfu is a beach holiday. In list the best beaches islands:

1. Nissaki. The sandy beach is located in a cozy bay. It is ideal for families and is very popular with diving enthusiasts.
2. Sidari. It is a long coastal strip, consisting of numerous bays. This is a favorite vacation spot for young people.
3. Peroulades. The beach is a narrow sandy strip surrounded by sheer cliffs.
4. Agios Gordios. Luxurious sandy beach surrounded by olive groves.
5. Kondokali. The most crowded beach on the island. This place is popular with tourists and locals.

The island has more than 10 diving schools and centers. Education in them is of interest to vacationers. Some tourists come to the island just for this study. The water world attracts lovers of the deep sea with its beauty.

What to watch?

Island attractions are of particular interest to tourists. Among the most popular:

Kerkyra. The city, founded by the Greeks in the 8th century, is the main historical attraction of the island. On the streets you can find buildings from various historical eras.

Read in what great places, preserved from ancient times, are a must-see in Greece.

The empires that owned the island at different times left their typographical errors in the architecture of Kerkyra. Among these buildings is the urban center, which was included in the list of UNESCO-protected sites, built during the protectorate over the island of Russia;

• Paleo Frurio. Old Venetian fort. It was built on the foundations of a Byzantine fortress in the 15th-16th centuries;
• Liston street. Built in the style of the French "promenades";
• Achillion Palace. The building was erected by order of the Bavarian Empress Amalia;
• mouse island. According to legend, he personifies the ship of Odysseus turned into stone by Poseidon;
• Cathedral of Saint Spyridon. Built with donations from the Russian Empress Catherine II.

You can stay during your stay on the island in hotels of various classes. Corfu has a huge number of hotels and guest houses.

In each city, you can order various excursions, including a visit to the mainland and the capital of Greece, Athens.