Corfu town, especially for its old part, is one of the most charming and romantic places in Greece. Built on a promontory, the town displays a unique architecture which is an amalgam from the different dominations, such as the Sicilian, the Venetian, the French, and the English ones. The old Corfu town was built in the past between the two fortresses and today it has been developed with beautiful buildings that preserve the glory of the past. Most houses are built of local stones, with wooden attics and handmade tiles. The Old Town lies on the northern side between the Esplanade Square and the new fortress. The square of the Esplanade (also called Spianada) is the central square of Corfu Town and the largest square in the Balkans. Many other interesting monuments adorn Corfu Town, such as the Old and the New Venetian Fortresses, the Town Hall Square, the Square of the Saints, the Ionian Academy, and the Palace of Saint Michael and Saint Georges.
The island of Corfu is one of the Ionian group islands. To the locals, Corfu is known under the name Kerkyra. It is a place with a long history and rich tradition. Its polymorphism is due to the many conquerors that arrived on the island through the centuries, including British and Italians, who left an evident mark on the local culture and architecture. Some parallel Corfu to Venice and Florence.
The Ionian Islands are located on the western side of Greece and are historically and culturally strongly connected to Italy with many evident elements of this. The architecture of the capital towns, including Corfu Town, Zakynthos Town and Argostoli, resembles a lot to the Venetian style as these islands were occupied by the Venetians in the medieval times. Another striking characteristic of Ionian Greece is the lush green nature and the aquamarine beaches with white soft sand. Corfu, Zakynthos, Kefalonia and Lefkada are the most popular holiday islands. The Ionian islands also embrace an amazing music and dance tradition.
Being among the top 20 tourist destinations worldwide, Greece is synonymous with 3 things: history and ancient civilization, amazing landscapes and top touristic destinations. Greece is so wealthy in culture and beauty that it never seems to be completely explored. Holidays in Greece is the ultimate experience all year round. It offers a great pallet of experiences; the warm sun, the crystal clear beaches, the dramatic nature, the rich culture and the renowned hospitality along with the unique culinary experience of the Mediterranean diet.
Learn more