Corfu's Culture and History
Corfu's culture is a product of its rich and diverse history, melding elements from Mainland Greece and Europe, from Venice and the wider Italy, and from France and Britain. The cosmopolitan lifestyle that developed as a result of these many influences has fostered a plethora of historic traditions that are still observed today, and that are evident in the island's architecture, art, music, dance and cuisine, as well as at the many festivals that punctuate its calendar.
Colibri
Colibri is a sacred seaside sanctuary on Corfu Island, Greece, where conscious living, creativity, and community come to life at the Colibri Farm. There, on the same land that hosts the Colibri Spirit Festival, an extended version of the festival is now alive every day from Thursday-Sunday throughout summer.
Nestled along the island’s stunning west coast, near Arillas, Colibri hosts daily yoga classes, workshops, live music, ecstatic dance, and nourishing food, all centered around a deep connection to nature and holistic well-being. The Colibri Restaurant offers healthy, delicious meals in a magical setting by the beach. Guests can also stay on-site in eco-friendly Glamping accommodations and choose packages that include full access to Colibri and the daily program.
Art
A look at the history of art and religious painting in Corfu from the sixteenth century until modern times.
Corfu Heritage Plaques
The Corfu Heritage Foundation has been responsible for the introduction and erection of commemorative plaques in town. This scheme, which is similar to the English Blue Plaque equivalent, is the inspiration of Count Spiro Flamburiari, the Chairman of the Foundation, who established the plaque scheme in 2004.
Cuisine
Corfu's cuisine is inextricably tied in with its history and this is what makes its food so different from the rest of Greece. It is fascinating to look through a menu and try to work out who brought what.
Festivals
A list describing the many festivals which punctuate the Corfiot calendar.
History
Corfu's geographical position meant that it was constantly at the mercy of invaders. This led to a wealth of history and influences. This section looks at the past rulers of Corfu and their present day legacy.
Historical Writing
An entry about Corfu taken from the 1911 edition of The Encyclopaedia Britannica and two pieces written in 1899 and 1913.
In the Footsteps of the Durrells
Enduring interest in the Durrells means that many people now visit Corfu in the hope of following in the footsteps of the family and their friends. Other people simply seek to read additional information about their time on the island as an aid to enjoying their books. It is for both groups of people that this e-book has been written.
Language
It's surprising how a little Greek will enhance your stay here. If you can offer a few words, even the most simple greetings, you will receive in return an even more enthusiastic welcome. This section contains the Greek alphabet and a few words and phrases that you might find useful.
Mirtiotissa Monastery
This 400 year old monastery sits among pine trees and olives on the hillside above the west-coast beach of the
same name. A peaceful spot with breathtaking views.
MOCM
A unique collection of custom made constructions by Andreas Monopolis. Includes sound devices, designs and musical compositions.
Monopolis Productions
Dedicated to the arts and especially activities that have an interaction between people and the audiovisual arts. The foundations of Monopolis Productions are diligence and the management of activities that offer safety and respect for both creators and their work.
Museums
In Corfu you will find museums exhibiting Archaeology, Byzantine Art, Asiatic Art, and Traditional Folk History. In addition you can visit the palaces of Achilleon and Mon Repos.
Music
In Corfu there is a long musical tradition which is continued by the many Philharmonic bands which can be seen performing at local celebrations. Both the composer of the Greek National Anthem and the Olympic Anthem were Corfiots.
Olives
The history, cultivation and production of olives and olive oil. Includes some fascinating olive-related trivia. For instance, did you know that olive oil is an antidote for ammonia poisoning?
The Rise and Fall of Corfu's Mansions
In north-east Corfu where property on the coast is snapped up, hidden houses in the hills are left to moulder towards decay, for the landed families can no longer maintain the lifestyle of past generations.
These mansions were a product of the Venetian era, remnant of a medieval feudal system that had its origins with the Angevin lords, who ruled the island in the 13th century.
The Heroes of Lefkimmi
Just before reaching the coast at Alikes near Lefkimmi stands a pristine monument in slate-grey granite and white marble. The inscription is hard to read, but what it reveals is an almost forgotten episode of World War II, during which the Corfiots - and especially the Lefkimmiots - showed their courage and integrity.
Wine
Information about Greek wine and the vineyards of Corfu. There is substantial evidence that wine has been produced in Greece since at least 4000 BC. In "The Odyssey", Homer famously describes "The wine dark sea".
