Corfu Greece - Travel and Tourist Information

About Corfu Greece

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Corfu is the second-largest of the Ionian islands that is located in the Ionian Sea. The Greek name for Corfu is Korkyra, which is related to two powerful water dieties: Poseidon, god of the sea, and Asopos, a Greek mainland river. Myth says that Poseidon fell in love with a nympth named Korkyra, who was the daughter of Asopos and river nymph Metope. Poseidon would abduct Korkyra and took her to an unnamed island where they married and he named the island after her. They had a child together named Phaiax. The inhabitants of the island would be called Phaiakes (Phaeaciani in Latin). Corfu’s nickname is “the island of the Phaeaciani.”

Corfu has a long and interesting history. The earliest reference made about Corfu was written in Linear B syllabic script around 1300 BC. Christianity came to the island early as well, around 100 AD. Two disciples of Saint Paul, Jason of Tarsus and Sosipatrus of Patras, taught the gospel and much of the island converted to Christianity.

During the First World War, the island of Corfu would serve as a refuge for the Serbian army. During their time on the island, many Serbians would die from disease, exhaustion, and lack of food. Many of the remains were buried at sea near the small island of Vido, which is located near the mouth of Corfu port. A monument was erected at Vido by the Serbs as a thank you to the Greek nation. Following World War II, a poem was written by Milutin Bojic called “Blue Graveyard.” The waters around the island of Vido are referred to as “Blue Bomb” by the Serbian people.

During World War II, the island was bombed by the Luftwaffe, which destroyed many of the buildings including the Hotel Bella Venezia, the Ionian Academy, and the Municipal Theatre.

Administrative Region of Corfu Island, Greece

Ionian Islands

Area of Corfu Island, Greece

610.9 km2 (235.9 sq mi)

Population of Corfu Island, Greece

102, 071

Top Attractions in Corfu Island, Greece

• Barbati Beach – A convenient day trip from Corfu Town. Warm blue water, beautiful scenery including mountains, and fine pebble sand. This is an organized beach with water sports available.
• Aqualand – One of Greece’s best water parks. Features water playgrounds for small children, a lazy river, kayak area, water slides, and more. Spa, boutique, arcade, and restaurants are also on site.
• The New Fortress – Located in Corfu Town. Also called the Fortress of Saint Mark, it was built by the Venetians in the 1500s. Take a tour to learn as much as you can about the fortress.
• Achillion Palace – Achillion Palace was built in 1890 for Empress Elizabeth of Austria as a place she could retreat to. Over time the palace was abandoned more than once before opening to the public. The palace sits on a hill overlooking the sea.
• Glyfada Beach – A family friendly beach 10 miles west of Corfu Town. Features soft sand, crystal waters, and towering cliffs and rock formations. A number of places to go for food and drinks in the area.
• Museum of Asian Art – Museum is located in Corfu Town. Housed in a Neoclassical building built in the early 1800s, the museum features history, art, culture, and much more. Unique pieces of Asian art.
• Liston Square – Located in Corfu Town, the square’s design was inspired by Rue de Rivoli in Paris. The architectural style is Napoleonic. The square is the perfect place to stroll, enjoy shopping in boutiques, and have a meal and drink in a café or restaurant.
• Nissaki Beach – Located 20 km from Corfu Town. A small beach on a small bay, the beach features warm, calm, crystal blue water, one café right on the water and others close by, and sun beds and umbrellas for rent. A family friendly beach.
• Strinilas – This village is located on top of the tallest mountain on the island. If you want to beat the heat, this is a good place to visit. Features a well-known winery and amazing views of Corfu city and the northeastern coast of the island.
• Casa Parlante – A museum that serves as a recreation of a nobel family’s home in the 19th century. A look at what life during the time would have been like with actors playing the roles of residents. You can hire a guide to teach you more about the history.