Throughout the centuries, countless conquerors have left their unique architectural mark on every corner of Corfu Island. Fascinating to explore and evoking nostalgia around every turn, it’s little wonder that Corfu’s old town – laced with a rich history – is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Witness four centuries of Venetian rule come to life in the old town’s enticing labyrinth of winding streets lined with grand mansions, dotted with old churches dedicated to various patron saints, and home to the Catholic ‘Duomo’ cathedral of Saints James and Christopher.
The Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio), located on the eastern side of Corfu's (Kerkyra's) port, was built initially during Byzantine times. It was reinforced by the Venetians and later by the British.
The New Fortress (Neo Frourio), The construction of the New Fortress in Corfu Town began in 1576 and was completed in 1645. The fortress overlooks the old port and is considered a masterpiece of fortress architecture.
The Achillion Palace,was built in 1889-1891 as the home of Princess Elisabeth von Witelsbach of Austria (known as Princess Sissy). Princess Sissy was captivated by Greek Mythology and thus named the mansion "Achillion" after the Greek mythological hero Achilles.
Pontikonissi is a picturesque isle just off the coast of Corfu (Kerkyra). Boats depart frequently to the isle to visit the Byzantine church and sit in the café that is located among the trees.
The Archaeological Museum, The contents of the museum's impressive exhibits originate mainly from excavations of several ancient sites on the island as well as an excavation in Epirus and cover the Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman Periods.
The Museum of Asian Art contains exquisite collections from Asian countries. The building has a long history as it has been used for many official political purposes such as Headquarters of the British Commission and the Headquarters of the Ionian Senate, as well as the Greek Royal Family's summer residence. The majority of the exhibits are donations from prominent Greek citizens, the Municipality of Corfu and the National Archaeological Museum.
The Sea Shell Museum, Benitses, contains findings from the Indian and the Pacific Ocean, as well as from the Mediterranean Sea.
The Church of St. Spyridon, St. Spyridon is the patron saint of Corfu (Kerkyra) Island. The church was built in 1589, in Corfu Town. It holds many excellent relics and has magnificent icons.
The Byzantine Church of St. Jason and St. Sosipatros A beautiful Byzantine domed church was built in the 11th century and filled with Byzantine art of the 11th and 12th centuries. The church is situated in Corfu Town (Kerkyra).
