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Saint Spyridon Church

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Saint Spyridon Church (Greece)

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The Church of Saint Spyridon in Corfu Town is the most significant religious landmark on the island, housing the relics of Corfu's patron saint. Built in 1589, the church reflects the Venetian architectural influence typical of the Ionian Islands, characterized by a single-aisle basilica design. Its most prominent feature is the bell tower with its distinctive red dome, which stands as the tallest in the Ionian archipelago and dominates the Corfu skyline. The interior is richly decorated with murals of the Ionian School of art, featuring the 'litia' ceiling panels that depict the life of the saint and various biblical scenes. Saint Spyridon's remains are kept in a double silver casket crafted in Vienna in the 19th century, which is carried through the city in solemn processions four times a year. The saint is deeply revered by the local population, who credit him with miraculously saving the island from plagues, famine, and foreign sieges throughout history.

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 Church of Saint Spyridon in Corfu Town is open to visitors and holds the relics of the island's patron saint. The interior is richly decorated with icons and intricate craftsmanship.
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Typical hours
The church is open daily, with breaks for services especially in the afternoon. The relics are usually displayed in the morning and early evening.
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Photography
Photography inside is usually allowed without flash, but please be respectful of worshippers. Near the relics, photography may be prohibited.
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Time needed
A visit takes about 30 to 45 minutes to see the church and relics. Allow an hour if you want to examine the icons closely.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with a stroll through the narrow streets of Corfu's old town. The nearby fortress and the Archaeological Museum are also worth a visit.
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Getting there
The church is in the historic center of Corfu Town, easily reached on foot. From the airport or port, take a taxi or bus to the old town.
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Insider tip
Visit the church early morning when the relics are on display and crowds are smaller. Dress modestly - shoulders and knees should be covered.

Geography

Coordinates
39.62540, 19.92310

Facts

  • The current church building was completed in 1589 in the Venetian style.
  • The bell tower is the tallest in the Ionian Islands, topped with a red dome.
  • The relics of Saint Spyridon were brought to Corfu in 1456 after the fall of Constantinople.
  • The ceiling murals were originally painted by Panagiotis Doxaras in the 1720s.
  • The saint's silver sarcophagus was commissioned and made in Vienna in 1867.
  • The relics are paraded through the streets in four major annual processions.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Palace of St. Michael and St. GeorgePalace of St. Michael and St. George<1 km · NEExplore →
Alykes PotamouAlykes Potamou4 km · WExplore →
KontokaliKontokali6 km · WExplore →
Achilleion PalaceAchilleion Palace7 km · SExplore →
PelekasPelekas9 km · SWExplore →
DassiaDassia9 km · NWExplore →
Agios GordiosAgios Gordios11 km · SWExplore →
BarbatiBarbati11 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

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Sights in the town Saint Spyridon Church (9)

Saint Eleftherios - Saint Anna

A church in Corfu, dedicated to Saints Eleftherios and Anna.

Methodios

A 1994 public sculpture in Greece by Nikolaos I. Georgiou.

Saint Nicholas of the Elders

A church in Corfu, dedicated to Saint Nicholas.

Banknote Museum🏛 museum

A museum in Kerkira, Greece, displaying banknotes.

Virgin Mary of the Foreigners

A church in Corfu Town, dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Casa Parlante🏛 museum

A Living History Museum in Corfu.

Museum of Asian Art🏛 museum

An art museum in Greece, featuring Asian art.

Venetian Well

A famous Venetian well in the Kambielo district.

Ag. Apostoli

A site in Corfu dedicated to the Holy Apostles.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is the church famous?
It houses the relics of Saint Spyridon, the patron saint of Corfu island.
Where is the church located in Corfu Town?
It is located in the heart of the old town, not far from the Esplanade (Spianada).
How can you recognize the church from the outside?
By its high bell tower with a red dome, the tallest in the Ionian Islands.
When is the church open?
Generally daily from early morning until late evening, except during private ceremonies.
Can you see the Saint's shrine?
Yes, the silver casket is opened for believers and visitors at specific times.
Saint Spyridon Church: where is it located?
Saint Spyridon Church is located in Greece.
Saint Spyridon Church: what is there to see?
Highlights include Saint Eleftherios - Saint Anna, Methodios, Saint Nicholas of the Elders.
Saint Spyridon Church: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Saint Spyridon Church: why is it worth visiting?
The Church of Saint Spyridon in Corfu Town is the most significant religious landmark on the island, housing the relics of Corfu's patron saint.
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