Corfu

Corfu’s identity is deeply tied to the sea. Shaped by centuries of maritime trade and conquest, the island’s coastal towns and quiet harbors still echo with the rhythms of empires past—Venetian, British, French, and Byzantine. A walk through Corfu Town’s Old Fortress, overlooking the harbor, reveals a skyline of pastel facades, domed churches and narrow alleyways, where Corfu’s history meets its living present.

Along the coast, life moves at a different pace. Fishing villages like Benitses and Petriti still rely on the catch of the day, and tavernas serve grilled octopus or bourdeto, a spicy fish stew rooted in Venetian tradition. In the hilltop village of Liapades, traditional Corfu culture thrives in the form of folk music, artisan weaving, and summer festivals celebrating local saints.

Religious processions remain central to Corfu life, particularly during Easter, when locals in Corfu Town carry relics of Saint Spyridon through the streets to the sound of philharmonic orchestras—a unique blend of Orthodox ritual and Western pageantry. In summer, music festivals echo across the bay, from opera in Venetian fortresses to jazz nights in marina squares.

Architecturally, the island offers an elegant mix of influences: neoclassical mansions, British colonnades, and the distinctive Venetian arcades of Liston Street, where locals sip coffee facing the Spianada square—the largest in the Balkans. Coastal monasteries like Paleokastritsa Monastery, perched on a cliff above the sea, reflect both spiritual solitude and panoramic views.

Seasonal winds like the maistros not only shape the sailing conditions but also influence daily life—bringing freshness in late afternoons, perfect for strolls along coastal promenades. From olive groves to turquoise bays, Corfu culture is defined by the interplay between land and sea, tradition and hospitality.

What cultural influences shape Corfu’s identity?
Corfu’s character is a rich mosaic of Greek, Venetian, French and British elements—visible in its architecture, cuisine, music, and religious traditions. These diverse influences create a coastal culture that’s both deeply rooted and uniquely open to the world.