Attractions of Corfu: the most fascinating places of the Greek island. Corfu attractions worth seeing for tourists
Paleokastritsa is located north of the capital of Corfu and is also one of the most popular places for relax.
The nature of these places is striking in its wild pristine beauty. Sir Frederick Adam, the British High Commissioner, once ordered the construction of a road connecting the resort with the capital of the island.
The resort and bays are surrounded by rocky mountains covered with dense greenery. At the top of the highest of them stands monastery Zoodohu Pigis (13th century), dedicated to the Mother of God.
There is a working church and a museum on the territory.
Climbing up to the observation deck "Bella Vista", you can admire an unforgettable view of everything West Coast almost from a bird's eye view.
The resort is suitable for family vacation and for families with children. The sea here is shallow, so parents do not have to worry about their kids, and children can safely play and splash in shallow water.
snow white velvet beaches equipped with everything necessary for a "lying" holiday. lovers active rest can go catamarans, water skiing, wind surfing, play tennis or beach volleyball. Diving fans will be happy to plunge into undersea world bays here.
Achilleion Palace
This majestic palace is located 20 km from the city of Kerhira. The building, made in the style of Platonic Romanticism, was built by the Italian architect Rafael Carita specifically for the Empress Elisabeth of Austria and was supposed to be "worthy of Achilles."
Visitors to the palace have always admired the elegance of forms, the author's inlaid furniture, the magnificent Imperial Gardens, which offer a beautiful view of the surrounding valleys and the Ionian Sea. In the center of the garden there is a statue of deadly early Achilles, depicted without pathos and unnecessary arrogance. The author of the statue, a German sculptor, tried to simultaneously show him not only as a hero of myth, but also as an ordinary person.
In another part of the palace, near the main staircase, there is a large painting depicting Achilles in a completely different way. Here he appears as the hero of a legendary myth: royal robes, military regalia and the defeated enemy Hector against the backdrop of an astonished audience.
Unfortunately, in 1898 Empress Elisabeth of Austria (or Sisi) was killed by an anarchist and after her death this luxury palace was sold to the German Kaiser Wilhelm II. Subsequently, a museum began to be located in this building, where you can see many masterpieces of art, personal belongings of the Empress and the Kaiser.
And what sights of Kerkyra (Corfu) did you like? There are icons next to the photo, by clicking on which you can rate a particular place.
Monastery Paleokastritsa
Paleokastritsa Monastery is located in the area of the same name in the west of Corfu.
The monastery is dedicated to the Mother of God, Greek name sounds like Moni Teotoku. Modern buildings date back to the 17th century, new monastery was erected on the site of a monastery built in the 13th century. On the territory of the monastery there is an arched courtyard and a small museum of Byzantine icons and icons of a later era. The interior of the monastery is the standard of classical monastic architecture. From the top of the monastery walls opens great views to the islands, one of which, according to legend, may be the "Ship of Odysseus". The monastery has a pleasant atmosphere of calm and comfort.
The area of Paleokastritsa itself is considered the most beautiful on the island, it is very popular among tourists who often visit the monastery.
Mount Pantokrator is the most high mountain on the island of Corfu.
Its height reaches 906 meters above sea level. It is located in the northeastern part of the island.
There is a monastery at the top of the mountain. The first monastery was built on the same site in 1347, but, unfortunately, it was destroyed in the first half of the 16th century. The Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord, which has survived to this day, was built in 1689.
You can get to the monastery either by car or on foot. The ascent is quite difficult and long, so it is worth weighing everything well before setting off. You won't regret if you do go on foot. beautiful nature and Fresh air contribute to a great mood. The picturesque view from the top of the mountain will amaze you and give you many great photos.
In clear weather, from the top of the mountain you can see not only the distant Greek islands, but also the territory of neighboring Albania and even Italian lands.
At the top there is also a telecommunications station and a cafe where you can have lunch and relax after the ascent.
old port
Benitses is an old fishing village located 12 kilometers from the city of Corfu, the capital of the island of the same name. If you move from Corfu around the island to southbound, then this will be the first resort area that has become Lately very popular among vacationers.
Previously, this area was called “Pinisse” (from the ancient Greek word “pinio” - river). The waters of the springs flowing down from the mountains of Agi Deka and Stavros form two small rivers, hence the name of the village. Until the mid-70s, the village lived a quiet provincial life. Fishing was the main occupation of the local men. The pier of the Old Port every morning saw off and met the fishermen with their catch. Local residents and owners of nearby eateries came to the port to buy fresh fish. Fishing boats rocked quietly on the waves at the pier of the Old Port, and it seemed that it would always be so.
However, with the development tourism business The life of the local population has changed dramatically. The patriarchal way of life was suddenly broken by the noise of night discos and beach parties. It didn't like it local population, and young people eventually stopped coming here for vacation. Despite this, Benitses still remained popular resort, but today it has a calm, almost family atmosphere. And in the Old Port next to simple fishing boats pleasure boats also appeared, more and more often they began to moor luxury yachts. With their appearance, the Old Port acquired new life without losing the local flavor.
Museum of Asian Art
The Museum of Asian Art is the only museum in Greece dedicated only to Oriental and Indian arts.
The museum is located in the Palace of Saints Michael and George, designed by the English architect George Whitmore during the period when the Ionian Islands were ruled by Great Britain. It was founded in 1927 and was originally called the Museum of Sino-Japanese Art. The exposition of the museum contains more than 11,000 items that cover the Neolithic period up to the 19th century.
Here you can see objects of Chinese art, from the Shang period to the Song dynasty. Among the Chinese objects, one can see coins, paintings, funeral offerings, seals among the Japanese - ceramic statues, samurai costumes, kakemono. The museum also has a significant collection of art from Pakistan, Thailand, Nepal, Tibet and Korea.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday.
Church of St. Spyridon
The Orthodox Church of St. Spyridon is named after St. Spyridon of Trimifuntsky, who is considered the patron saint of the island of Corfu. The relics of the saint, placed in a silver sarcophagus, rest in the temple. Every year on the feast of Easter, the relics of the saint are carried through the streets of the city, and people hang red canvases from their windows. The fact that the patron is honored on the island is confirmed by the fact that the name Spiridon is very common here.
Initially, the temple building was located in the Sarocco region, but later it was moved to its current location due to the construction of the city walls. The temple building was built in 1590 in a style characteristic of the Ionian Islands, which is so unlike other Greek temples. The church is clearly influenced by the Italian architecture of the 17th century, as it stands out with its impressive belfry, reminiscent of the belfry of the Church of St. George in Venice.
The most striking elements in the interior of the church are the ceiling of the church and the iconostasis. Initially, the ceiling of the temple was painted by Paiotis Doxaras.
Are you curious to know how well you know the sights of Kerkyra (Corfu)? .
Old city of Kerkyra
The old city of Corfu is in close proximity to the modern part, but most tourist attention concentrated in old Kerkyra. Some of the most famous architectural sights of Corfu are located in this part of the city.
The architecture of the medieval city is made in the Baroque style. In this area, everything is of interest to the inexperienced eye of a tourist - narrow and winding streets, houses with low balconies, decorated with flowers and vines, a majestic embankment with stunning palaces, fountains and colonnades. Italian travelers like to compare the Old Town with Italy, because the architecture in this part is almost no different from the Italian one. However, in this area of Kerkyra, Greek architects embodied ideas not only in the Baroque style, but also in national, French and English. Houses of various buildings are decorated with balconies and windows with elegant lattices, arches and galleries, which make the appearance of buildings unique.
There are no street layouts in the old city, they all randomly lead to the main monuments, palaces and temples of Corfu. One of the most important sights for the Greeks is the Blachernae Monastery, which is considered the guardian angel of Kerkyra. The ancient part of the city is located near the monastery, and residents consider this neighborhood symbolic.
The Greek island of Corfu stands out from the rest of the Ionian Islands with its natural beauty and pure emerald colors. Not only ordinary travelers come here to relax, but also cultural figures, creative people and famous people. This wonderful place recreation has not lost its popularity and attractiveness for a long time. What is o. Corfu?
Description of the island
The island of Corfu (Greek name - Kerkyra) is the second largest after about. Kefalonia. It is located to the north of all and is rightfully considered the most beautiful. The territory of the island is covered with lush vegetation, among which citrus and olive trees are most often found, as well as cypresses, towering over the island. Corfu. The description of this place would be incomplete without mentioning its population.
The inhabitants of the island are very hospitable and friendly, most people speak English, in mountainous areas real Greek settlements have been preserved, attracting guests of Corfu with clean air, a quiet and calm atmosphere. The infrastructure of Corfu is well developed. And this is not surprising, because it became one of the first islands of this region, which travelers began to visit.
Island weather
Mouse Island (Corfu)
800 meters from the shore of Kanoni there is another pearl of this region - Mouse Island (Pontikonisi). Exists ancient legend that this island was once the ship of Odysseus, which Poseidon, enraged by the return of the hero, turned into stone. On the island is the monastery of Pantokrator, built in the 12th-13th centuries. You can get into it by a long white staircase that looks like a mouse tail (hence the name). Mouse Island, like the other Ionian islands, is covered with lush vegetation.
Entertainment on the island
Holidays on the island of Corfu will suit both lovers of soaking up the sun and admirers active species sports. stretched almost along the entire coast beautiful beaches With white sand, immersed in the greenery of orange groves. For those who want to spend their holidays actively, there are many opportunities here: the island has one of the oldest Greek golf courses, a large number of tennis courts, three equestrian schools, cricket tournaments are held, and, of course, there is a great opportunity to practice water sports sports - diving, windsurfing or sailing. Recently, more and more often, entire groups of travelers are purchasing tours to the island of Corfu to dive to the bottom, as the underwater world here is extraordinarily beautiful and mysterious.
Island resorts
Most of the resorts of the island are located in its eastern part. This is due to the fact that the waters off this coast are 2-3 degrees warmer compared to western part. South coast mainly targeted at young people from the UK.
The resorts of the northeastern part of Corfu are best suited for beach holiday. The hotels here are for the most part isolated, they have everything you need for a full-fledged comfortable pastime, however active life outside the territory of the hotels is absent. Most famous resorts this region - Agios Spyridon and Nissaki.
North of the island - pretty remote place, however, this is not an obstacle for travelers who are attracted here magnificent bays and the beauty of the scenery. Here is the Canal of Lovers - one of the famous local attractions. Northern cities the islands of Corfu - Sidari, Roda, Kassiopi and Acharavi.
The resorts of the eastern and central parts are the most popular among tourists. Here are the most popular hotels in Corfu. In addition to the beautiful nature and excellent beach holidays, the resorts of this coast can offer their guests a wide choice nightlife- bars and taverns, cafes and restaurants with Greek cuisine will not leave anyone indifferent.
In this part of the city, Kerkyra (the capital of the island), Gouvia, Kommeno, Dassia, Pirgi and Ipsos open their doors to travelers.
South of the capital are the villages of Perama, Kanoni and Benitses, which are ideal for lovers a relaxing holiday. In the southernmost part of Corfu are the youth resorts of Glyfada and Ermones.
The west coast boasts Ermones and Glyfada - the best beaches islands with fine white sand, cypresses, orange and olive groves.
25 kilometers from Kerkyra is the highlight of the island - Paleokastritsa. The gentle clear sea of various shades and steep cliffs immersed in greenery created beautiful bays and beaches. This real paradise for connoisseurs of diving, spearfishing and swimming.
Corfu island on the map of Greece
Detailed map of Corfu island
Corfu Map
Corfu is one of the Ionian Islands belonging to Greece. The second largest (593 square kilometers) among the Ionian Islands, Corfu is their administrative center. The capital of the island is the eponymous city of Corfu (or Kerkyra in Greek).
The map of Corfu represents a crescent-shaped piece of land washed by the sea. The Greek island is located in the northwestern part of the Ionian Sea, it stretches from north to south for 65 kilometers parallel to the coast of the mainland. The map of Corfu gives an idea of the position of the island relative to other territories: in the north, the island is located off the coast of Albania, from which it is separated by a strait from 3 to 23 kilometers wide, and in the south, opposite the coast of Greek Thesprotia. The length of the coastline is 217 kilometers.
The northern part of the island is extremely mountainous: it is crossed by an ancient mountain formation, including the most high point Corfu - Mount Pantokrator (917 meters). The central zone is hilly, and the southern zone is lowland.
A detailed map of Corfu will help you decide on the choice of a resort, which in most cases are located in picturesque colorful villages and villages.
Corfu Map with attractions located in the map tab, in the places section. This service will help you navigate the terrain while traveling.
The legendary Greek island of Corfu is located in the northern part of the coast of Greece. The warm Ionian Sea washes it with gentle waves. It is here that you can see an extraordinary mixture of landscapes, eras and cultures.
Sightseeing tours show tourists all the most interesting things, but what is really worth seeing when you come to the island for the first time? Consider the most famous sights of the island of Corfu.
Story
Corfu has a rich centuries of history. Epochs and religions, cultures and traditions are mixed here. The island has been conquered and liberated many times. The owners here were the Spartans, Byzantines, French, Venetians and the British. The first mention of Corfu dates back to the times Greek mythology. Kerkyra, this is the name of the island by the locals, in honor of Poseidon's beloved, the capital is also called by the same name.
Today, Kerkyra, or as the city of Corfu Town is also called, is a favorite place to visit for tourists from different countries peace. Once here for the first time, it seems that France, Greece, Italy and England have merged into one. Interestingly, tourists notice that the city has an exact copy of the French Rue de Rivoli.
Sights of Corfu
The locals call the island of Corfu in different ways. Someone says about it that this is a place where everything is possible, others call it the Land of the Gods, but this place has been nicknamed by tourists as the Millionaires' Resort. This is not surprising, because here you can meet the most famous and richest people in the world, even representatives of royal families come here to relax.
This island welcomes literally everyone. It is comfortable for elderly couples, large families and youth companies. Consider the most interesting sights of the resort, which is worth seeing for a tourist.
Achillio
On the eastern part of the coast, in the small village of Gastouri, there is an extraordinary palace built by order of the Austrian Empress Sissi. The palace got its name in honor of the hero of ancient Greek myths Achilles. The castle was built in the IXX century and is still perfectly preserved. Dozens of ancient Greek sculptures who are the personification of mythological heroes. The sculptures of the dying Achilles and the statues of the Muses make an indelible impression.
There is also something to see inside the palace. There are many unique frescoes with images of ancient scenes, which have no analogues in the world. Framing the palace of rare beauty are plants that were brought here from different corners world by order of Emperor Wilhelm II, who became the owner of the castle in the early twentieth century.
Old city
The central part of Corfu is a unique historical monument world culture. The interweaving of narrow stone-paved streets can lead tourists to the most secluded and interesting corners of the capital. Numerous churches, unique Gothic buildings, small souvenir shops and cozy cafes will be found here at every step.
Church of St. Spyridon
In the heart of the Old City is the oldest Christian shrine - the temple of St. Spyridon. Here are the remains of the patron saint of Corfu, St. Spyridon Trimifuntsky. It is this saint who is credited with the fact that Kerkyra was able to escape the terrible plague twice and was never captured by the Turks.
The islanders believe that at sunset, when the temple is empty, Saint Spyridon bypasses his possessions and guards this place. According to assurances local residents his clothes wear out, and therefore every year he is changed into a new dress. The old clothes of the saint are cut into small pieces and distributed to people in envelopes. It is believed that such a charm saves anyone from illness and misfortune. Interestingly, the name Spiridon is still the most common among male names among the local population.
Icon of Ushakov
Admiral Fyodor Ushakov was a significant figure for the island. It was thanks to him that the State of the Seven Islands was created, which marked the beginning of the development modern Greece. The admiral, together with the indigenous population, was able to hold back the onslaught of the French, thereby preserving the freedom of the local residents. After his death, Admiral Ushakov was canonized as a saint. The icon of the saint with his face is kept in the Cathedral of John the Baptist. You can get to this place by crossing the square from the temple of St. Spyridon.
canoni
In the south of the capital of Corfu lies the small picturesque village of Kanoni. Tourists love this place for wonderful houses, beautiful beaches and magnificent views of the neighboring island with a monastery. Here is a small hotel where you can stay with your family and spend unforgettable days swimming in the warm Ionian Sea. The indigenous population of the village is incredibly hospitable, everyone can feel at home here.
Monastery of Panagia Blachernae
Opposite the village is a small island. You can get here by a long pier that leads to the tiny monastery of Panagia Blachernae. The most amazing thing is that right above the monastery passes air way, which leads to the airport of Corfu, so the planes fly here so low that it seems that they are about to touch the bell tower of the Cathedral.
The monastery, unfortunately, is no longer active, but in the temple you can pray and light candles. Here, in the church shop, various souvenirs are sold. Many tourists specially come to the monastery to find peace and tranquility within these walls. The sights of Corfu attract to this place not only ordinary tourists but also pilgrims.
In a previous article, we talked about how you can. Now it's the turn of the story about the sights of Corfu and what is worth seeing on this beautiful island. A feature of the island of Corfu is that it has a mixture of Greek, Venetian, English, French cultures. This island, covered with lush greenery and fragrant flowers, was also a favorite retreat of the Austrian Empress Amalia Eugenie Elisabeth, better known by the pet name Sissi. Therefore, on modern Corfu you can see an abundance of attractions.
The most striking attraction of Corfu, in my opinion, is castle Austrian Empress Amalia Eugenia Elizabeth (Sissy) and adjoining garden.
They are located on east coast islands, 10 kilometers south of the airport, in the village Gastouri.
The name Achillio Palace comes from the name of the ancient Greek hero Achilles. This architectural masterpiece was built in 1890-1891 by the Italian architect Rafael Carito by order of the Austrian Empress, who wanted to find peace and solace in this beautiful corner Mediterranean.
The Empress was an ardent admirer of ancient Greek culture, so the palace and park are decorated many sculptures depicting the characters of Greek mythology. The most interesting are the statues of the nine muses, the dying Achilles and the conquering Achilles.
The architecture of the palace combines Doric, Ionic and Romanesque styles, but in general it resembles luxurious Viennese palaces. Inside you can see many frescoes with antique scenes.
At the beginning of the twentieth century, the palace was acquired by the Emperor of Germany Wilhelm II (Kaiser), who changed the location of some sculptures, installed a statue depicting the first owner of the palace in front of the entrance to the palace, and ordered to make and install a statue of the victorious Achilles. The Kaiser also ordered rare plants to be brought to the island and decorated with them in the garden surrounding the palace.
All this splendor can be seen by a modern traveler from 8-00 to 19-00 in weekdays and from 8:00 to 14:30 on Saturday and Sunday. Entrance ticket price in Achillio is 7 euro from a person.
Old Fortress
Old Fortress (Paleo Frurio) one of the parts of the island's defensive system. It was built in the 8th century by the Byzantines and subsequently completed by the Venetians and the British.
The fortress is located near the city center and is separated from it by an artificially created strait. You can enter the Old Fortress via a special bridge, which is located a few tens of meters from Museum of Asian Art.
The fortress is located on several levels, at the highest rises a giant Christian cross, it is clearly visible even at night to all ships approaching the island. There is also classic lighthouse.
From the top of the fortress, breathtaking views of the city and the sea open up. On the territory of the fortress, you can also see ancient bastions and weapons of different eras, designed to defend the fortress, various administrative buildings, barracks and a prison.
Also on the territory of the fortress there are several churches and chapels. Most Interest is Church of St. George, the patron saint of warriors. It was built by the British in the middle of the 19th century, but appearance more reminiscent of an ancient temple than a Christian church of that era.
Among other things, the fortress has a cafe where you can relax and have a bite to eat. During the summer period, the Old Fortress is open to the public from 8-00 to 19-30. IN winter time some levels of the fortress are not accessible for inspection. Ticket price 4 euros from a person concession ticket 2 euros.
New Fortress
New Fortress also called Neo Frurio and Fortress of St. Mark, located within walking distance from the center of Corfu and the port. It is considered a marvel of defensive architecture. It was she who in 1716 prevented the Turks from capturing the island.
The construction of Neo Frurio began at the end of the 16th century by the Venetians. A huge amount of building material was needed, so about 2,000 houses and churches were destroyed on the island. She became a part defensive structures cities. Later, the New Fortress was completed by the French and the British.
Neo Frurio has two levels - one to protect the city, the other to protect the port. On their walls you can see the image of lions.
On the territory of the Fortress there are two bastions, one of which is now a cafe. The fortress is surrounded by two rows of walls and is equipped with a complex system of underground passages through which an inquisitive traveler can wander. This will help him feel even better the gloomy atmosphere that prevails in the New Fortress.
Neo Frurio also offers a magnificent view of the city and the Old Fortress. From April 15 to October 30, the New Fortress is open to the public from 9-00 to 21-00. Entrance ticket price 3 euros from a person.
Not far from the New Fortress is monument Russian admiral Fedor Ushakov. The monument was erected by grateful islanders for their help in liberating Corfu from the French invaders. Admiral Ushakov canonized as an Orthodox saint. The icon with his image is in one of the temples in the center of Corfu.
City center, church of St. Spiridon, icon of Ushakov
A separate attraction of Corfu is the city of Corfu itself (the capital of the island), namely its center, Old city. It will be interesting for any traveler to wander along the narrow cobbled streets, admire the architecture of churches and residential buildings unique for Greece, as well as look into several shops or sit in one of the cozy cafes.
In the very center of old Corfu is one of the greatest shrines Orthodox world - relics of St. Spyridon Trimifuntsky, the patron saint of Corfu. By the way, that is why Spiridon or affectionately Spiros, the most common male name on the island.
The inhabitants of Corfu revere St. Spyridon very much, they believe that it was thanks to him that the island escaped the plague twice, once famine, and was never conquered by the Turks of other faiths. Even during his lifetime, the saint had the gift of healing, cast out demons and could even raise the dead, he gave all his means to the poor and wanderers, defended the unjustly offended.
The relics of St. Spyridon were transported to Corfu in 1453 from Constantinople captured by the Turks. In 1590, a temple was built on the island, named after this saint. Since then, to this day, the relics are kept in this temple. The saint's body has a constant temperature of 36.6 degrees, and his shoes and clothes wear out, as if he is walking somewhere, they are replaced several times a year. When the priests cannot open the shrine where the relics of the saint are kept, they understand that he has gone away to help someone.
Since ancient times, Saint Spyridon has also been very revered in Rus', so a huge number of Russian pilgrims come to his relics. The shrine with relics opens for worship at about 10:00 and at 17:00 after the morning and evening liturgy, but it is better to come early, as there are always a lot of people who want to venerate the holy relics.
It is advisable to write notes about health and repose in Greek or with Latin letters to make it easier for the priest to read them. In Greece, it is customary that if there is a cross on a note, then it is read for peace, and if it costs nothing, then for health.
Temple coordinates for GPS N 39° 37.513 E 019° 55.352
Here you can make virtual tour around the temple Spyridon in Corfu, explore the area around him and even climb his bell tower and enjoy the view of the city: http://www.corfuchurches.com/content/view/58/70/lang,el/ (just click on the red button under photograph).
On opposite side square from the temple of St. Spyridon is located Church of John the Baptist. Inside is an icon of Admiral Fyodor Ushakov, canonized as an Orthodox saint. His comrade-in-arms captain-lieutenant Savitsky is also buried there, a memorial plate in Russian is buried above the grave.
The idea of a Russian occupation of the island was for many years imposed on the Corfiots by the British, but the islanders, like the rest of the Greeks, are by no means gullible people. In addition, they remember well the fact that Corfu was under British occupation for a long time, and the fact that Russian troops expelled the French from the island, after which Corfu became part of the Republic of the Seven Islands - the first since the fall of Constantinople independent form Greek statehood.
Kanoni, Mouse Island, Monastery of Panagia Blachernae
Monastery of Blachernae
Place canoni- another attraction of Corfu. It is located 5 kilometers south of the center of Corfu town. A long and narrow pier leads to a tiny island containing a building of an equally tiny Monastery of Panagia (Our Lady) Blachernae. In the monastery, you can light a candle and pray, and buy souvenirs in the adjacent shop.
Boats are moored along the pier. By paying one of the captains a symbolic price in 2.5 euro you can take a walk to the nearby mouse island, which really is shaped like a mouse. The islet is densely covered with vegetation, and there is a 13th-century church on it.
In Kanoni, you can also experience a very unusual feeling and take impressive photos. The thing is, it's very close. international Airport Corfu, therefore, landing and taking off aircraft pass almost over the heads of travelers, almost touching the bell tower of the monastery of Panagia Blachernae.
Paleokastritsa, bay, monastery of the Mother of God
Paleokastritsa is one of the most scenic spots islands. There are many coves with azure water, beautiful beaches and traditional Greek taverns. It was here that the ancient city of the feacs was located, where, having suffered a shipwreck, the Homeric Odysseus ended up during his wanderings.
Today in Paleokastritsa they offer many entertainment programs and sea excursions.
Most interesting excursion in my opinion it is submarine travel along the coastline. Upper deck the vessel is above the water, from there you can admire the scenery, see an unusually shaped rock, make beautiful pictures, feed sea fish (food is given by the team).
Going down inside the submarine, you will find yourself approximately three to four meters under water. Through the windows and the transparent bottom, you can admire the reefs and their inhabitants - fish and crabs. The cost of tickets for such an excursion is about 10-15 euros, depending on the ship you choose.
All ships depart from the port of Paleokastritsa and their ticket offices are located nearby. In the port, during the summer months, a person is on duty, providing free background information to everyone.
Sailing along the coast of Paleokastritsa, you may notice several white houses with a red tiled roof on a forested cliff, and among them a tall bell tower. This Teotoku Monastery ( Mother of God) . You can get into it by climbing on foot from the port of Paleokastritsa. You need to walk along the highway for 5-10 minutes.
There are a lot of beautiful flowers and fragrant plants in this small, cozy monastery. There is a museum on its territory, where various curiosities are exhibited. The most impressive of them is a giant clam shell, about a meter by eighty centimeters in size.
The icon of the Holy Trinity on the ceiling of the temple in the monastery is very interesting. On it, God the Father is depicted with a halo in the form of a star of David, and the lower, sixth ray of the star is not visible, its role is played by the beard of God the Father.
The monastery is open from 07:00 to 13:00 and from 15:00 to 20:00, admission is free. It is best to have a scarf or pareo with you, to cover bare spots so as not to embarrass the monks. Scarves are also given at the entrance to the monastery, but they may not be enough for everyone.
Angelokastro
Another place worth visiting in Corfu is not far from Paleokastritsa. Its name in Greek means "angel's citadel". The fortress was built by the Byzantines in the 13th century on top of the high cliff northeast coast of Corfu. The fortress is located at an altitude of 305 meters above sea level; good review water areas. Therefore, the fortress of Angelokastro played a decisive role many times in the defense of the island from the Turks. Now the fortress is in a dilapidated state.
However, climbing up to its ruins along a rocky mountain path, you can see the main gate, the remains of battlements, a garrison, a circular tower, a church in the rock, as well as a small Church of the Archangel Michael built on the site of another early Christian church. There is also a magnificent view from the fortress.
The fortress is available for visits from May to October. Free admission.
Archaeological sites of Corfu
In Corfu you can also see several ancient ruins. It is primarily leftovers. ancient capital island, which was located a little south modern city(3 km). There you can see the ruins of an ancient agora and two ancient temples. Nearby is Manor Mon Repos built by the British in the late 19th century. Today it houses the Museum of the Old City. It is open from April to October from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday is a day off.
Also noteworthy is the monument to Menekratis, the tower of Neradzikhas, the temple of Artemis. Monument to Menekratis was erected around the 7th century BC and is dedicated to the consul of Corfu. You can see the monument around the clock at the intersection of the streets of Cyprus and Marasli.
Neradzikhas Tower- the only thing left of ancient wall that defended the city. It is located behind the modern cemetery at the end of Ag.Theodoron Street. From Temple of Artemis only a few fragments have survived to this day, located near the monastery of St. Theodores, and the beautiful pediment of Artemis Gorgo, stored in the Archaeological Museum of Corfu.
Museums in Corfu
Corfu has several interesting museums. This Archaeological Museum, Art Gallery municipality and the Museum of Asian Art.
Archaeological Museum is located in the old town on the coastal street towards Garitsa, next to the hotel "CORFU PALACE". The address of the museum is Vrailya Armeni 1. It exhibits finds from ancient city and the Temple of Artemis, including the pediment of the temple with the image of the Gorgon Medusa. Also in the museum you can see ancient household items, coins and sculptures.
The museum is open from 8:30 to 15:00. Monday is a day off.
Palace of Saints Michael and George- a majestic building, decorated with Doric columns. Built by the British in the first half of the 19th century. It was to become the residence of the English ruler of Corfu. After the overthrow of the British, the palace briefly became the residence of the Greek royal family. It currently houses Museum of Asian Art. It presents about 10 thousand exhibits. In the museum you can see ceramics, figurines and other products from Japan, China and India.
The museum is located in the old town near Old Fortress. Opening hours 8-00 to 19-30. Monday is a day off. The museum is adapted for the disabled.
The ticket price is 3 euros per person. Every Sunday from November 1 to March 31 admission is free. Museum website: http://www.matk.gr/en/
Art Gallery municipality is located at Akadimias 1. It contains ancient icons, portraits of the kings of Greece, paintings by contemporary Corfiot artists, old maps of the island.
The gallery is open from 9:30 to 15:00. Monday is a day off. The price of a regular ticket is 4 euros, a reduced ticket is 3 euros. Gallery website http://www.artcorfu.com/en/
These are the main attractions of Corfu. But surely this wonderful island fraught with many more secrets and surprises that will delight travel enthusiasts.
