The modern resort town of Corfu (Kerkyra), located on the island of the same name, is very popular with tourists who go on vacation or for shopping in sunny Greece . Here you can calmly and comfortably relax with family or a group of friends. What to see in Corfu, and which places should you visit?
Achillion Palace in Corfu
On the territory of the island of Corfu, about 20 kilometers from the city of Kerkyra, there is the Palace of Achillion, built in the late 19th century by an architect from Italy Rafael Carit. It is decorated in the Renaissance style: the exquisite interior of the palace is rich in quaint furniture and works of art. This villa was purchased by Wilhelm II in 1907 for the Empress of Austria Elizabeth. Only in 1928 this building became state property. The palace tried to preserve the atmosphere, which recalls the king and the empress. Near it is a beautiful park, in which you can see numerous statues, decorated in the style of ancient times. In the park there are a large number of statues that depict the hero of Ancient Greece Achilles.
The Church of St. Spyridon of Trimiphound in Corfu
The main attraction of the city of Corfu is the church of Spiridon, which was built in 1589. It was consecrated in honor of St. Spyridon. The church stores his relics in a silver coffin. To his remains are pilgrims from all over the world and bring with them the offerings: utensils of silver, which can be seen in the interior decoration of the church.
The monasteries of Corfu
The shrines of the island of Corfu are represented by monasteries built in Ancient Greece.
One of the most visited monasteries is Vlacherna, which is located in a bay near the Greek airport. It is in a special place - on a small island, you can get to it only by a narrow bridge. This church is considered a symbol of Corfu.
The oldest monastery Pantokrator comfortably settled on a small island Ponticonisi (mouse island), covered with abundant dense greenery and a large number of trees. The monastery was founded in 11-12 centuries. From it down to the water leads a staircase made of stone. If you look towards the island, then from a distance the staircase looks like a mouse tail. Hence the name of the island itself.
The oldest church in the city is the Church of Panagia Antivuniotis, which houses the Byzantine Museum. The construction of the church dates back to the 15th century. In 1984, restoration work was carried out, after which the Museum was opened. It contains such valuable exhibits as:
- altar cloth donated by Nikiforos Theotokis;
- Byzantine icons: the icon of the 15th century with the image of the Virgin Mary with the Child, the icon of Saint Demetrios, the icon "Do not touch me".
In addition to the holy places on Corfu, you can visit the following places:
- the central area of the Esplanade;
- Mon Repos park;
- Municipal Gallery, which houses paintings of local artists of the 19th century;
- Museum of Asian Art;
- Archaeological Museum.
At the top of Mount Angelokastro is a dilapidated fortress, which was founded in the 13th century. When you look at the sea from the side of the brick walls, it just takes your breath away.
A fascinating view will open to the whole of Corfu and neighboring countries, if you go to the Pantokrator mountain. On the islands of Paxos and Antipaxos you can wander through the deserted wild beaches or go diving.
Visiting the world famous resort of Corfu, you can get acquainted with the history of Ancient Greece, plunge into the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. A hospitable Greeks will help organize your holiday at the highest level.