Corfu, Greece…the Favorite Vacation Destination for an Empress

Overlooking the Mandraki Harbor in Corfu, the old fort displayed evidence of Venetian influence with images of winged lions resting on its fortification.

Kerkyra, more commonly known to tourists as Corfu, is located just off the mainland of Greece, between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. Corfu Town is a popular port with a strong Venetian influence as exhibited in its architecture.

Throughout the maze of streets in the Old Town, there were several streetside cafes.

One of the more interesting areas of Corfu Town was Liston. Because it had once been occupied by the French, the country’s influence on Corfu was visible in its architecture. Fashioned after the Rue de Rivoli, it was a replica of one of Paris’ most famous streets. The French ruled here from 1797 to 1814 (with a brief rule by the Ottoman in between), and then later the British from 1814 to 1864.

In the early days when the Venetians ruled Corfu, only the noble and aristocrats were permitted to walk among the arcades.

Through the alleyways I caught a glimpse of the beautiful flowers cascading from archways and apartment balconies.

The Church of Agios Spyridon was located a few blocks behind the Liston. Built in the 16^th century, it displays ceiling murals designed by Panagiotis Doxaras.

I love the Greek tradition of placing candles in the sand outside of the church.

There are many shops scattered among the streetside restaurants that offer local delicacies. One of the shops provided samples of kumquats and kumquat liquor. Kumquats are a fruit that comes from a tree. They are small, about the size of an olive and resemble the orange in both appearance and taste.

It was time for us to board the bus headed to the Achilleion Palace. Sailboats anchored off the scenic coast as we made our way south during our drive.

The Achillion Palace was built for Empress Elisabeth in 1890 as a second home and retreat from her native Austria. It was later acquired by German Kaiser William II in 1898 after she was assassinated. The palace is now a museum displaying the belongings of both the Empress and Kaiser.

Throughout the mansion there were statues and paintings of Achilles. Achilles was a mighty warrior and Greek hero of the Trojan War. He was killed when a poisoned arrow was shot through his heel, the only vulnerable part of his body.

Another statue on the grounds of the mansion showed Achilles reaching towards his ankle in pain after having been shot. Today we know the tender area behind our foot as the “Achilles Tendon”.

In keeping with the Achilles theme throughout the mansion, the mural inside titled “The Triumph of Achilles” depicted Achilles’ defeat over Hector during the Trojan War. Achilles was riding a chariot dragging Hector behind.

Empress Elisabeth had a tragic life. A year after the death of her son, she decided to build a summer home on the island of Corfu. She grew to love the Greek culture and language and the Achillion Palace was her favorite place with its panoramic view of the island.

Elisabeth’s love of Greek mythology was evident in the entryway of her palace with statues depicting fairies and fauns.

Once I had completed the tour of the Achillion Palace, I took a moment to have a drink at the Nova Bella Vista, a Mediterranean café. It was the perfect opportunity to take in the coast.

We had a short bus ride to the town of Paleokastritsa on the east side of the island where we would visit a monastery, have a group lunch and then hang out at the beach if there is enough time.

The Monastery of the Virgin Mary, also known as Panagia Paleokastritsa, is of Byzantine origin and was first built in 1228. It was a short uphill climb from the beautiful bay of Paleokastritsa. The current structure was from the 18th century and provided stunning views of the coastline.

Even today, there are Greek Orthodox Monks who reside here to hold mass and provide assistance to the local residents. They offer tours of the monastery and grounds and are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding their home.

There are several resident cats who will take the time to play with you during your visit to the monastery. They live here permanently and are cared for by the monks.

As we approached the church, we were reminded that only those dressed appropriately (shoulders and knees must be covered) were permitted to enter. They also requested that we provide a small monetary donation.

Leaving the village of Lakones towards the bay, I was rewarded with a magnificent view of Paleokastritsa and the fir trees.

The crystal blue waters and rock formations below can be explored by kayak. There is a small beach here for those that have brought the proper attire, but soon we would board the bus to head back to the ship.

The bay of Paleokastritsa from the beach was full of craggy rocks. There were several restaurants across the street to enjoy a light lunch and there were a variety of menu items for sale. I did not want to leave the beautiful blue sky and blue sea, the friendly locals and the relaxed atmosphere. I can see why this island is perfect for an Empress.

Have you visited the island of Corfu? Where did you go and what was your favorite activity? I would be happy to hear about your adventures in Corfu if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit and wishing you Many Happy Travels!

…dragging Hector behind…

Have you had the opportunity to visit the island of Corfu? What was your favorite part of your visit? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my amazing visit to Corfu and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Old Venetian Fortress
Corfu, 491 00 Greece

Admission Fee: 6 Euros per person and 3 Euros for seniors
Hours: Open daily from 8AM to 8PM
Amenities: restaurant (expensive), restrooms, ice cream and refreshments
Scenic Views: The views of Corfu Town and the Ionian Sea are spectacular from the fort.
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: The entrance is located in front of the Liston near the Explanade. The climb to the top to see the lighthouse is steep. The walking paths are a bit slippery, so wear appropriate walking shoes. When the cruise ship is in port, the fort can be quite busy and with only one restroom, the lines can be long. The attraction is not handicap accessible.

Church of Agios Spyridon
Platytyra, Corfu, 49100
Telephone: +30 26610 39912

Admission Fee: No charge, but a small donation is much appreciated
Hours: Open daily from 7AM to 8PM
Length of the Tour: 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Wear appropriate dress which requires the shoulders and knees to be covered.

Achilleion (Achillion) Palace
Telephone: +30 26610 56245

Admission Fee: 10 Euros per person
Hours: Open daily from 8AM to 9PM
Amenities: restaurant nearby, audio guides, gardens, souvenir stalls, restrooms,
Scenic Views: The views of Corfu Town from the gardens is beautiful.
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Have your passport/identification ready for renting the audio guide. When the cruise ship is in port, the palace can be quite busy and they have priority over individual entries, so go early in the day or late afternoon to escape the crowds.

The Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as Panagia Paleokastritsa
Kavos, Greece

Admission Fee: No fee, but be prepared to make a small contribution
Hours: Open daily from 8AM to 9PM
Amenities: restaurant with stunning oceanside views. udio guides, gardens, souvenir stalls, restrooms,
Scenic Views: Beautiful view of the Paleokastritsa up the climb and the restaurant also has amazing views
Length of the Tour: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: The walk up the hill to the monastery is quite steep. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water if the temperature is warm. There is a monk available to answer any questions you may have.

Where to Stay:

MarBella Corfu
Agios Ioannis Peristeron
49084 Corfu, Greece
Telephone: +30 26610 711836

Where to Eat:

Cafe Liston
Kerkiras 10
Kerkiras, 491 00 Greece
Telephone: +30 2661 045528

What to Eat:

Baklava is layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts, spices and sweetened with honey
Greek Salad
Greek Wine from Santorini is unique as the grapes are grown in volcanic ash
Gyros
Lamb
Local Olives
Mashed Fava Beans (Fava me Koukia)
Moussaka is an eggplant or potato based pie with meat and cheese
Pomegranates
Saganaki is a phyllo pastry stuffed with cheese and covered in honey
Souvlaki are meat kabobs made from lamb, beef or chicken
Spanikopita is a phyllo pastry filled with spinach, cheese, and sometimes onion
Tomato Fritters made with tomatoes and onion, they are spiced either with oregano and peppermint then deep-fried
Tzatziki is a yogurt based sauce with bits of garlic, onion, cucumbers, olive oil and lemon. Pita bread is usually served with this dish for dipping.