Corfu is the second largest of the Ionian Islands, situated off the coast of Greece in the Ionian Sea. Due to its strategic position, Corfu has a battle-torn history and consequently still has many castles around its rugged coastline.
The north of Corfu is mountainous while the southern end is low-lying with many capes, beaches and promontories around the coastline. The highest point is Mount Pantokrator which stands 906 metres (2,972 feet) high in the northeast sector of the island.
The island has been a popular tourist resort for many years and until the early 20^th century regularly hosted European royalty and elite. Today it is popular with middle class Europeans seeking sunshine, sandy beaches, a touch of Greek culture and a slower pace of life.
Corfu currently has a population of over 109,000. Its main city, also called Corfu, is on the east coast and is uniquely surrounded by two castles. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features a labyrinth of narrow passageways and cobbled streets oozing history.
Between the old Venetian fortress and the city is the Spianada, one of the largest squares in Europewith many restaurants around the Liston arcade. The New Citadel is a massive fortified complex to the northeast of the city and visitors can tour this former garrison with its maze of corridors.
The Achillion Palace, Royal Gardens, Kaiser’s Bridge, historic museums, Church of Agios Spyridon and the Municipal Art Gallery in the Palace of St Michael and St Georges are some of the many landmarks to look for in beautiful Corfu.