History of Corfu from Greeka.com
Between myth and history
Although tourism has hit Corfu in a big way, it is possible to get past the packed beaches and snap-happy tourists. Thought to be the Homeric island of Scheria, Corfu served as a welcome footfall for Odysseus on returning from Troy, as well as a hiding place for the Argonauts and their plunder - the Golden Fleece.
Having passed in and out of control of first the Roman, then the Byzantine Empires which left their mark with the construction of the Old Fort, it was then the turn of the Venetians, whose architectural legacy remains palpable today.
Few European histories would be complete without Napoleon leaving a megalomaniac footprint somewhere, and Corfu's no different though Corfu did manage to acquire its first public library, complete with over 4,500 books - still open today. The Napoleonic wars were followed by the inevitable squabbling over who was to control the island. The British decided they didn't like the idea of it being an Austrian protectorate, and besides the Brits had a better Navy.
Besides unraveling the island's history, you'll also find in-depth information on Corfu's architectural heritage, churches and museums; plus a more hedonistic rundown of Corfu's best beaches, bars and restaurants.
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