Culture of Corfu. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Many interesting historical and religious sites have been preserved on the island, as well as unique archaeological and incredibly beautiful natural sites. Unique architectural and historical monuments can be admired literally in any local city. The ancient city of Corfu is considered to be the unique historical center founded in the 8th century BC. Now the entire territory of the city has the status of a World Heritage Site, the city is known for its authentic buildings. Here, travelers can stroll through the beautiful historic streets, as well as see houses and churches built over 500 years ago. Everyone can climb a high hill that offers a magnificent panorama of the historic area.

A unique historical object is the ancient Venetian fort Paleo Frourio, which was erected by Italians in the 15th-16th centuries. The very first fortress on its site was built by Byzantines in the 8th century but was completely destroyed in the course of numerous battles. During the fort's construction, some fragments left from the original fortress were used. The Byzantine fortress' foundation has been completely preserved.

The fort stands on a small hill so its adjacent territory offers a gorgeous view of the coastal areas. At the foot of the hill, on top of which the fortress rises, the old Church of St. George has been preserved. This temple dates back to the 19th century, stones and columns left in these places from prehistoric buildings were used during its construction. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The Venetian fortress Neo Fryrio is another important historical landmark, even though it has managed to survive to this day only partially. Built in the 16th century, the fortress has been repeatedly reconstructed under the guidance of British and French. The building is located in a very picturesque area, on top of Saint Mark's Hill. It is noteworthy that the preserved elements of the defensive construction are actively used even now. Some of the buildings are occupied by the seaport offices, and some of them are converted into a historical museum. Some rooms presently serve as exhibition halls where they regularly hold temporary exhibitions of various specifics.

Among Corfu's most beautiful architectural monuments is the Achilleion Palace built in the late 19th century. This sumptuous palace was built specifically for the Austrian Empress. After its completion, it became her favorite residence. After the empress' death, the rich snow-white palace with columns has remained in private ownership for some time and later became public property.

Now it is completely restored, an interesting historical museum operates within the walls of the palace. It stores collections of antique furniture, works of art, and interior items, as well as accessories that once belonged to representatives of the imperial family. The palace is surrounded by a lush landscaped garden, which in itself is an outstanding landmark.

A much more modest but no less valuable historical monument is the Palace of St. Michael and St. George. It is a large-scale architectural complex in a classical style, the construction which was completed in 1824. This magnificent palace was built for a British governor and then served as the residence of one of the local knightly orders. Today, the palace houses the Museum of Asian Art, which was based on a private collection of one of the wealthy British diplomats.

Among the island's numerous religious sites, the Βλαχέρναα monastery stands out. It was founded at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries. The initiators of the Orthodox monastery's construction were representatives of the wealthy Tsilibaris family. Originally a convent, in the second half of the 20th century it fell into disrepair and has been empty for several years. A major reconstruction of the convent was completed in 2005, after which it was revived as a monastery. Βλαχρναι Monastery is located on a small island connected to the mainland by a specially built wooden bridge. Valuable ancient icons are kept within the walls of this monastery.

In Corfu, you can also visit St. Spyridon Cathedral located in the heart of the historic district. The Russian Empress Catherine II took part in the splendid temple's construction, and now it is considered one of the richest on the Ionian Islands. The temple dates back to the second half of the 18th century. It has preserved beautiful ancient frescoes, on which the best Italian masters worked. The main treasure of the cathedral is the relics of St. Spyridon, the patron of Corfu Island.