Corfu Maps

Corfu (Greek: Kerkyra) is the second-largest of the Ionian Islands and the northernmost, located off the northwest coast of Greece in the Ionian Sea. The island covers 236 square miles and has a population of approximately 105,000 residents. Corfu Town, the capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring a unique blend of Venetian, French, and British architectural influences resulting from centuries of foreign rule.

The island was never conquered by the Ottoman Empire, unlike most of Greece, instead being ruled by Venice for over four centuries (1386-1797), followed by brief French rule and British administration (1815-1864). This history is reflected in the Old Town of Corfu, which features narrow lanes called "kantounia," elegant arcaded buildings reminiscent of the Rue de Rivoli in Paris, and cricket grounds. Major landmarks include the Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio) and the New Fortress (Neo Frourio), both built by the Venetians, the Church of Saint Spyridon, the island's patron saint, and the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, built during British rule.

Outside the capital, notable sites include the Achilleion Palace, built in 1890 for Empress Elisabeth of Austria, featuring neoclassical architecture and gardens. The northwestern village of Paleokastritsa is renowned for its scenic beauty, with rocky coves and the Monastery of Paleokastritsa overlooking the sea. The island's northeastern coast, particularly around Kassiopi and the area of Roda, contains significant ancient and Byzantine remains.

Corfu has lush vegetation due to higher rainfall than other Greek islands, with over four million olive trees covering much of the landscape. The island's economy is heavily dependent on tourism, with Corfu International Airport "Ioannis Kapodistrias" serving as a major entry point for visitors to western Greece and the Ionian Islands. The south features the Korission Lagoon, an important ecosystem and protected area. Traditional Corfiot culture shows strong Italian influences in cuisine, music, and customs, including brass band traditions unique in Greece.

The Facts:
Region: Ionian Islands.
Regional unit: Corfu.
Towns and villages: Agios Georgios, Achilleio, Corfu, Ereikoussa, Esperies, Faiakes, Kassopaia, Korissia, Lefkimmi, Mathraki, Meliteieis, Othonoi, Palaiokastritsa, Parelioi, Thinali.
Population: ~ 105,000.
Area: 236 sq mi (610 sq km).