What are the other names for Corfu?

What are the other names for Corfu? Corfu, known as Kerkyra in Greek, owes its name to the Nymph Korkyra, the daughter of the River God, Asopus. According to the myth, Poseidon, God of the Sea, fell in love with Nymph Korkyra, kidnapped her and brought her to this island.

What does Corfu mean in English?

Corfu. / (k??'fu?) / noun. an island in the Ionian Sea, in the Ionian Islands: forms, with neighbouring islands, a department of Greece.

What is the oldest town in Corfu?

With houses dating from the 14th century, Old Perithia is Corfu's most ancient village. Built to be safe from pirate attacks, it's near the top of the island's highest peak, Mount Pantokrator, surrounded by dense forest and with views over the Ionian Sea towards Albania.

What food is Corfu famous for?

Why is Corfu so Italian?

In the 12th century, the Kingdom of Naples sent some Italian families to Corfu to rule the island. From the Fourth Crusade of 1204 onwards, the Republic of Venice sent many Italian families to Corfu. These families brought the Italian language of the Middle Ages to the island.

Why is Corfu so famous?

Corfu is famous for its charming architecture as it features a cluster of colorful buildings dated back to the Venetian period. The island's historic town is a cultural UNESCO World Heritage Site and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and elegant ones worldwide.

What is the abandoned town in Corfu?

Guide to Old Perithia Village, Corfu One such, practically the only surviving example, is Old Perithia. The Old Perithia village, which was built in the 14th century while the island was under Byzantine rule, is located on the northern flanks of Mount Pantokrator at about 400m above sea level.

Is Corfu Greek or Turkish?

The island of Corfu, which lies off the west coast of the Greek mainland, is no stranger to foreign influences. Its unique culture is a fusion of Greek and Italian elements, with later British and French additions, reflecting its varied history as a much coveted and strategic holding in the Mediterranean.

What happened at Corfu?

Corfu incident, (1923) brief occupation of the Greek island of Corfu by Italian forces. In August 1923 Italians forming part of an international boundary delegation were murdered on Greek soil, leading Benito Mussolini to order a naval bombardment of Corfu.

How long is the ferry ride from Athens to Corfu?

You can take one of the ferries operated by Corfu Ferries, which runs every three hours and gets you to Corfu in 1 hour and 45 minutes. Keep in mind that ferries only operate for travelers Tuesdays through Fridays.

Does Corfu count as Greece?

Corfu is the second-largest island in the Ionian Sea and the seventh-largest in Greece. It is one of the northernmost parts of Greece as its northern coasts are part of the Adriatic Sea, while at a short distance from the island lie Albanian coasts.

What language do they speak in Corfu?

The Greek Language Many people speak English, some very well, but even just a few words in their native language will always be appreciated.

Is Corfu full of mosquitoes?

4. Bring mosquito repellent. I left Corfu with more than a tan and good memories – I left with about a dozen massive mosquito bites too! Whether you bring repellent or just some good anti-itch cream, I highly recommend something to deal with mosquitos and their bites.

Is Corfu a party island?

Corfu is one of the most cosmopolitan Greek islands, famous for its vivid nightlife. Corfu Town suggests many places to start your evening, like the traditional taverns with amazing local dishes, especially in the Old Town.

What is the beautiful island of Corfu?

On the northern side of the Ionian Sea, the charming island of Corfu carries a rich historical past, with influences from the Venetian, French, and English cultures that shaped the island's unique architecture. Its picturesque town, mansions, palaces, and gorgeous beaches make Corfu a top destination in western Greece.

Why is Corfu called Mouse Island?

It's not clear where the name comes from. Some say that the island was full of mice in the past, some others that it has a mouse shape if you look it from top. There is also a legend that refers to the island as the ship of Odysseus which Poseidon turned to stone. Mouse island can be reached from Kanoni are, in town.

What is the nickname of Corfu?

Corfu's nickname is The island of the Phaeacians.