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Corfu is a museum of history, offering tourists a trip back in time, dotted with influences from the Venetian, Byzantine, French, and British eras. One of the most culturally rich islands in the Ionian Sea. These historical places in Corfu reveal interesting tales of wars, alliances, religion, and art. From ruling fortresses and neoclassical palaces to ancient monasteries and well-preserved towns, the island admirably combines its rich past with the character of the present. Whether you are a history enthusiast or an adventurous tourist, these significant historical sites in Corfu are a must on your checklist.
10 Historical Places To Visit In Corfu
Historical Places in Corfu tell us about its rich cultural and political heritage; they are not monuments at all but living histories of ancient triumph in wait.
1. Old Fortress
Photo: Marc Ryckaert (MJJR) / Wikimedia Commons
The Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio) is the crown jewel of Corfu’s heritage and provides an unmatched insight into the island’s rich history. Situated atop a rocky outcrop, it looms over the eastern flank of Corfu Town and represents the heart of the island’s ancient defence. This symbol of Venetian bastion architecture is decorated by some of the finest military buildings, from its subterranean corridors to its colossal bastions, and the ancient lighthouse. Aside from its physical beauty, the Old Fortress symbolizes Corfu’s strength and strategic value through centuries of conquests and cross-cultural exchange.
Location: Eastern Corfu Town
Major Attractions: Subterranean passages, bastions, lighthouse
How To Reach: A short walk from Corfu Town center, using the local bus or taxi
2. Achilleion Palace
Photo: Marc Ryckaert (MJJR) / Wikimedia Commons
Achilleion Palace is a stunning testament to Corfu’s rich history, where European royalty meets Greek legend. This is one of the most important historical places in Corfu. Conceived in 1890 by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, this stunning neoclassical palace is bordered by charmingly landscaped gardens that heighten its regal grandeur. The palace is ornately adorned with classical sculptures, attesting to the empress’s profound respect for Achilles, the mythological Greek warrior. Achilleion Palace is not only an architectural wonder but also a testament to the rich merger of imperial European tastes and symbols of Greek culture.
Location: Corfu City
Major Attractions: Fortified walls, bastions, shooting gallery
How To Reach: Local bus or taxi from Corfu Town
3. New Fortress
Photo: Mariordo (Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz) / Wikimedia Commons
The New Fortress is an outstanding example of Corfu’s defensive history and Venetian military might. Constructed in the 16th century on the hill of St. Mark, it overshadows the town of Corfu, representing the island’s strategic status in terms of defence. The fortress is replete with intricate labyrinthine passageways and imposing stone walls, exhibiting the development in military engineering then. Aside from its grandeur of architecture, the New Fortress demonstrates Corfu’s determination in defending its port and town from several invasions.
Location: St. Mark’s Hill, Corfu Town
Major Attractions: Stone ramparts, tunnels, panorama views
How To Reach: Walking distance from Corfu Town centre
4. Mon Repos Palace
Photo: Dan Lundberg / Wikimedia Commons
Mon Repos Palace stands as an exquisite testament to Corfu’s neoclassical history and British colonial legacy. Built in 1831 by the British High Commissioner, this beautiful villa commands views of the glistening sea, providing tourists with both beauty and history. The palace also contains a museum displaying archaeological finds of Paleopolis, the ancient city of Corfu, which connects visitors to the island’s far-off past. A visit to this majestic estate is an exclusive tour of Corfu’s multiracial history and aristocratic heritage, and a visit here is an absolute must for history buffs as well as tourists.
Location: Outskirts of Corfu Town
Major Attractions: Gardens, archaeological museum, royal heritage
How To Reach: From Corfu Town by taxi or local bus
5. The Liston Promenade & Spianada Square
Photo: Vlado Alin / Wikimedia Commons
The Liston Promenade & Spianada Square is one of the gem historical places in Corfu, providing a unique look at the island’s past as a cosmopolitan centre. Modelled after Paris’s Rue de Rivoli and constructed under French domination in early 19th-century Corfu, the Liston towers in Corfu Town as a symbol of city sophistication and recreation. This renowned arcade is lined with quaint cafes and looks out over the huge Spianada Square, the Balkans’ largest square and the site of centuries of socialising and historical events.
Location: Corfu Town centre
Major Attractions: Liston Arcade, Spianada Square
How To Reach: Conveniently located within walking distance of Corfu Town
6. Church Of Saint Spyridon
Photo: Armineaghayan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Church of Saint Spyridon is a radiant beacon of Corfu’s rich spiritual and architectural heritage. Completed in the 1580s, its characteristic Venetian-style bell tower rises above Corfu Town and is a visible and endearing landmark. This holy church contains the venerated relics of Saint Spyridon, the patron saint of the island, inviting pilgrims and tourists alike to seek blessings and spiritual connection. The refined architecture and rich heritage of the church symbolise centuries of religion, piety, and cultural heritage that still guide the community of Corfu.
Location: Corfu Town
Major Attractions: Bell tower, Relics of Saint Spyridon
How To Reach: Walking distance in Corfu Town
7. Angelokastro
Photo: Dr.K. / Wikimedia Commons
Angelokastro is a breathtaking reminder of Corfu’s Byzantine past, giving visitors a glimpse into the island’s medieval defensive buildings. This 13th-century castle is spectacularly set on a cliff face on Corfu’s dramatic northwest coast, with the wide sweep of the Ionian Sea beneath it. Its imposing walls and stone battlements mirror an era when vigilance was paramount in defense against constant pirate raids and incursions. The stunning panoramic views and atmospheric ruins of the site provide a leap into living history.
Location: Northwest coast of Corfu
Major Attractions: Fortress ruins, panoramic sea views
How To Reach: By car or guided tour from Corfu Town
8. Kanoni & Mouse Island
Photo: Dimitris Pachakis / Wikimedia Commons
Kanoni and Mouse Island are natural and cultural crown jewels of Corfu, giving visitors a breathtaking glimpse of the island’s world shared with a wealth of mythological mythology. This is one of the most important historical places in Corfu. Just outside Corfu Town, Kanoni offers breathtaking views of the tiny, green Mouse Island (Pontikonisi) and charming 17th-century Vlacherna Monastery, both set against the sparkling Ionian Sea. It is believed that Mouse Island is the petrified vessel of Odysseus, cursed by Poseidon, and engulfed in mythical beauty around the idyllic landscape.
Location: South of Corfu Town
Major Attractions: Mouse Island, Vlacherna Monastery
How To Reach: By taxi or local bus from Corfu Town
9. Casa Parlante Museum
Photo: Dguendel / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Casa Parlante Museum is a fascinating storehouse of Corfu’s cultural heritage, giving a glimpse of the life of a 19th-century aristocratic household like never before. Located in the very heart of Corfu Town, this museum brings history alive with its colourful mannequins, original period furniture, and fascinating stories. It sets the Venetian and British aristocratic way of life for Corfu to life, offering visitors an unforgettable experience unlike any other. Aside from its pioneering exhibitions, Casa Parlante also offers the social history and artistic heritage of this prosperous island.
Location: Center of Corfu Town
Major Attractions: Period furniture, animated mannequins, story-based interactive presentations
How To Reach: Handily reached on foot from within Corfu Town
10. Paleokastritsa Monastery
Photo: AndyScott / Wikimedia Commons
Paleokastritsa Monastery is a wonderful representation of the rich Orthodox heritage of Corfu, and an insight into the island’s culture and religious past is provided for its visitors. The old monastery, which dates back to 1225, stands on a hillside overlooking the lovely Paleokastritsa bays and in its tranquil and inspiring ambiance is one that will never be forgotten. The monastery still exists and contains exquisite religious paintings, old manuscripts, and a little museum which testifies to the centuries-long Orthodox traditions of Corfu. Its serene environment and architecture bear witness to the centuries-long focus on the spiritual and the communal.
Location: Paleokastritsa, Corfu
Major Attractions: Religious relics, manuscripts, and the museum
How To Reach: By car or local bus from Corfu Town
These historical places in Corfu’s storied history in its buildings, culture, and ageless landmarks. From Byzantine walls to Venetian walls and majestic palaces of royalty, every site unfolds another new and intriguing page in the island’s multi-hued past. Walking among these locations, it colours Corfu’s history with vivid imagery, deepening your respect and leaving lasting impressions of this enchanting island’s ageless and wondrous heritage. So, plan your visit with TripXL and explore Corfu.
Cover Photo: Martin Falbisoner / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
