The name Corfu itself derives from the days of the Byzantine Empire (Italian) which means City of peaks, due to the two large mountains of Palaio Frourio. The Island is split into three districts, the northern mountainous area, southern low-lying and the central undulating, a very mixture of the north and south of the island. The island is an estimated 227 miles long and 40 miles wide, a small but variant island which has lots to offer.
Corfu City (Old Town)
The ‘old town’ as it is known shows a strong Venetian influence in its architecture due to the Venetian nobility having control of the island for almost 300 years (between 1401 and 1797). The city is based in the North-Western area of the island has a population of circa. 28,000. The city is also known as Katropolis because of the three cities that have a dominant presence within the city.
The architecture of the city as expected has a strong Venetian influence. The forts however that were originally designed to house 10- 20,000 soldiers have now been part demolished by the English during their control in the 19th century. Within the town there is still evidence of their architecture with the large tall buildings that tower over narrow streets, however there is also a strong British influence, showing strong examples of neoclassic design which itself has an Italian influence as it derives from Roman designs largely used in Pompeii.
The city is listed as a World heritage site and would be of great interest to anyone in interested in architecture as the varied influence on buildings intermingling to make a unique city. However the island also has another wilder side, the small fishing village of Kavos has become popular with fun seeking Brits.
Kavos
This small area of Corfu has been popular with ‘clubbers’ since the mid 90s, the main part of the town being a long strip along the beach which is jam packed with bars offering cheap alcohol to the large contingent of British revellers. The area is in stark contrast to Corfu city and indeed the area it was only a few decades ago. The actual population is roughly 900 but during the summer months it sees an influx of tourists. Tourism is now the main industry in the area.
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