The first Corfiots (as the islanders are known) probably arrived in the 8th Century BC, and built a settlement on the Kanoni peninsula south of the present island capital (which is also called Corfu). Corinthians, Romans and Greeks fought over the strategic island for centuries before the Venetians finally took control in 1386. In medieval times, all the citizens of Corfu town used to live within the confines of the Old Fort citadel jutting into the sea. But as the population grew, the Venetians expanded west, towards the New Fort. The result was the picturesque Old Town, a charming labrynth of narrow streets, tall houses and small squares, now thriving with craft shops, jewellery shops, tavernas and hordes of visitors on the look-out for bargains.

An important feature of the town is the fine Esplanade (Spianada), one of the largest public squares in Europe. It's divided into two parts with gardens and a bandstand at one end, and a cricket pitch at the other - a very English memento of the brief period of British rule from 1815 to 1864. The Georgian style Palace of St. Michael and St. George at the northern end is also a British leftover, while the French donated the elegant cafe-packed arcades of the Liston, modelled on the Rue de Rivoli in Paris. The cafes make an excellent spot for watching cricket! The Town Hall square is also a lovely setting with several very pleasant tavernas and cafes. The Town Hall itself was built around the middle of the 17th Century as a club for Venetian nobles and officers.

During World War Two the town was heavily bombed by the Italians and occupied by both the Italian and German forces and many of its buildings were destroyed. Fortunately however, the majority of the most spectacular survived and are, generally, open to the public. These include:

The Palace of St Michael and St George

A former residence of British governors and Greek royal family. It now houses the impressive Museum of Asian Art.

Mon Repos

This former Royal Estate is the birthplace of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. It was built by the British Lord High Commissioner Sir Frederick Adam in 1824. It has magnificent gardens including many rare plant species. Its ownership is at present the subject of litigation between the Greek Government and ex-King Constantine.

The Old Fortress

Mostly built by the Venetians during the 15th century, it dominates the eastern skyline. Once the entire town perched on this rocky headland which was transformed into an island by the digging of a narrow channel during the 10th Century Byzantine period. The Sea (or Old) Tower dates from this era. Later, the Venetians widened the channel into a substantial moat, fortified the lower slopes, raised battlements and dug communications. These days you can walk around the ruins and visit the British garrison church, dedicated to England's patron saint, St. George.

The New Fortress

Built between 1572 and 1645 it stands on the hill of St Mark and is a fine example of 16th and 17th century military architecture. An excellent place to get a great photo of the Old Town roofs below.

Church of Saint Spiridon

There are many churches dotted throughout the town. Inside you will find ancient icons and relics. These are places of great interest to visitors and all are made welcome. It is considered polite to respect their sanctity and be suitably dressed. St Spiridon Church is the most important church on the island for Corfiots as it contains the remains of the island's eponymous patron saint. They were brought back from Constantinople in 1453 and placed in a silver reliquary to the right of the altar. The church actually dates from 1596, and is typically ornate with a fine painted dome, elaborate carvings, icons and highly polished silver censers (incense burners) hanging from the ceiling.

Church Of Saints Jason And Sosipatros

Pupils of Saint Paul, they are believed to have brought Christianity to Corfu. The church in the back streets of Garitsa is Byzantine, dating from around 1,000 AD and contains frescoes from that time.

Corfu Cathedral

Facing the Old Port from the top of a flight of steps, the 16th Century cathedral may be modest in size, but its interior is a treasure trove of icons.

Pontikonisi (Mouse island)

A 13th century church sits on this little rocky outcrop at Kanoni near Corfu Town. Legend has it that Ulysses was cast upon this island by a storm, or that it is the boat of the Phaecians which was turned to stone on its return after carrying Ulysses to Ithaca.

The British Cemetery

A wonderful oasis of peace and tranquillity near the centre of town. It contains graves which date from the days of the British Protectorate up to the present day. It is famous for the trees and flowers (including 36 varieties of orchid) which flourish in its grounds.