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Old Fortress (Corfu)

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Old Fortress (Corfu) (Greece)

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The Old Fortress of Corfu is a Venetian fortification located on a small peninsula that protects Corfu Town from the sea. It was built in the 15th century on the ruins of Byzantine fortifications to protect the population from Ottoman attacks. Its most distinctive feature is the artificial moat, the 'Contrafossa', which separates the fortress from the mainland and turned it into an impregnable island. Within the walls are numerous historical buildings, including the church of Agios Georgios, built in the style of an ancient Doric temple. British influences are also visible, as the fortress was expanded during British rule in the 19th century. Today, the area is open to visitors and houses the Ionian University library and exhibition rooms. From the bastions, there is a spectacular view of the old town of Corfu and the Albanian coast. The fortress is considered a masterpiece of military architecture of its time.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

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📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Old Fortress of Corfu is open to visitors and provides insight into Venetian military architecture. You can see the casemates, the chapel, and the bastions.
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Typical hours
The fortress is typically open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm in summer and until 5:00 pm in winter. Hours may differ on national holidays; best to check ahead.
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Photography
Photography is allowed without restrictions throughout the grounds. For professional or commercial shoots, a permit from the relevant authority is required.
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Time needed
Allow about one and a half to two hours to visit the fortress. The walk up to the walls and the viewing platform takes time and a bit of stamina.
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Combine with
Combine the Old Fortress with the New Fortress and the historic center of Corfu Town. The narrow streets and Venetian buildings are worth a stroll.
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Getting there
The Old Fortress is located right by the port of Corfu Town and is easily accessible on foot from the city center. Taxis and buses stop near the entrance.
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Insider tip
Climb to the top of the fortress for an impressive view over the city and the sea. Best to come in the late afternoon when the light is well-suited.

Geography

Coordinates
39.62340, 19.92880

Facts

  • The Venetians began construction in the year 1402.
  • The artificial moat 'Contrafossa' was dug in 1537.
  • Agios Georgios church was built by the British in 1840.
  • Successfully resisted three Ottoman sieges (1537, 1571, 1716).
  • Currently houses the Music Department of the Ionian University.
  • The highest point is the citadel featuring a lighthouse.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Palace of St. Michael and St. GeorgePalace of St. Michael and St. George<1 km · NWExplore →
Alykes PotamouAlykes Potamou5 km · WExplore →
KontokaliKontokali7 km · WExplore →
Achilleion PalaceAchilleion Palace7 km · SExplore →
PelekasPelekas10 km · WExplore →
DassiaDassia10 km · NWExplore →
Agios GordiosAgios Gordios11 km · SWExplore →
NissakiNissaki12 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Old Fortress (Corfu) (10)

British Artillery🏰 castle

Former British artillery position in the Old Fortress of Corfu.

Land Peak

Viewpoint at the highest point of the Old Fortress of Corfu.

Old Fortress

Fortress in Corfu, Greece, built by the Venetians.

🕒 Nov 01-Mar 31: 08:30-15:30; Apr 01-Oct 31: Mo-Su 08:00-20:00

Old Fortress Lighthouse

Lighthouse within the old fortress of Corfu, Greece.

Kambana Fort🏰 castle

Fortification in the Old Fortress of Corfu.

Corfu Archaeological Administration🏛 museum

Administration of archaeological sites in Corfu.

English Barracks🏰 castle

Former British barracks in the Old Fortress of Corfu.

Mandraki

Beach in the Old Fortress of Corfu.

Byzantine Museum of Corfú🏛 museum

Museum of Byzantine art in Corfu.

Martinengo Bastion

Bastion in the Old Fortress of Corfu.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How is the fortress connected to the city?
By a bridge over an artificial moat, the 'Contrafossa', which separates the fortress from the mainland.
What is the striking building inside that looks like a Greek temple?
It is the Church of St. George, built by the British in the 19th century in neoclassical style for their garrison.
Can you climb all the way to the top?
Yes, a path leads to the lighthouse on the highest rock; from there, you have a 360-degree view over Corfu.
Is there a café on-site?
Yes, inside the fortress, there is a café-restaurant with a view of the harbor and the bay.
Who mainly built this fortress?
The current structure dates mostly from the Venetians in the 15th and 16th centuries.
Old Fortress (Corfu): where is it located?
Old Fortress (Corfu) is located in Greece.
Old Fortress (Corfu): what is there to see?
Highlights include British Artillery, Land Peak, Old Fortress.
Old Fortress (Corfu): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Old Fortress (Corfu): why is it worth visiting?
The Old Fortress of Corfu is a Venetian fortification located on a small peninsula that protects Corfu Town from the sea.
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