Culture and history info

Lands of myths and colourful traditions
Mediaeval castles and monasteries, storied buildings and excellent museums – testaments to the rich history of the Ionian islands.
On Corfu, Homer’s kingdom of the Phaeacians, popular sights are the city’s Old and New Venetian Forts, the Achillion palace built by Sissy, empress of Austria, and Mon Repos. Outstanding museums include the Asian Art collection in the Palace of St Michael and St George, the Archaeology Museum, Municipal Gallery and others. Also famous are the island’s marching bands in full regalia, their unusual Easter customs and the processions in honour of patron Saint Spyridon.
The stalwart 14th-century castle of Santa Maura guards the entrance to Lefkada, while throughout town you’ll notice wonderful examples of 17th- and 18th-century Ionian baroque churches.

Kefalonia too has Venetian fortresses, but also Mycenaean tombs, Roman mosaics and baroque churches, while Argostoli’s Corgialenios Museum and Library are among the best in Greece. On Zante, the basilica and bell tower of Agios Dionysios remind one of Venice, and the monastery of Agios Georgios ton Gremnon above Shipwreck bay is beautifully preserved. Fans of Byzantine architecture will also want to venture to the Strofades islands 37 nautical miles off Zante to see the impressive 13th-century monastery-fortress there.