Corfu,
the wooded isle of the Phaeacians, Odysseeus’ last stop
on his long journey home to Ithaca, is the best known of
the Ionian islands.
It owes its sophistication and charm to
the meshing of the different civilisations that have
occupied the island and to the natural beauty with which
it is so abundantly endowed.
On this cosmopolitan island, you’ll be
able to combine relaxation with good times and a full
nightlife, for Corfu is an international tourist center,
which can satisfy the demands of the most difficult
visitor.
The capital of the island is also called
Corfu (Kerklra). It is built on a promontory that
projects into the sea and is separated into a northern
and a southern section. East of the northern part lies
the Old Fortress, cut off from the town by a moat. For
centuries all the popular of Corfu lived within this
citadel, which was founded by the Byzantines but greatly
expanded and strengthened by the Venetians.
The town of Corfu is made up of
completely dissimilar elements, left over from different
civilisations. It presents an enchanting picture with
its broad streets and spacious squares, the popular
Spianada – the town “green” – contrasting with its
narrow back alleys paved with blocks of stone (known as
“Kantounia”), houses with a strong Italian influence,
the famous Liston, a French arcade, traditional Georgian
mansions, a Byzantine church, Venetian monuments,
balconies with wrought.iron railings and window grilles.
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