Corfu Greece
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History
Because of the
island's superb climate and the fertility of its soil, and also because
of its strategic geographical location guarding the southern neck of
the Adriatic Sea between Italy and Greece, Corfu has always been a
prize for conquerors. After being part of the civilisation of Ancient Greece, it was ruled by Romans, Byzantines, Normans and Angevins, before a 400-year period of stability under the Venetian Republic, which protected it from invasion by the Turks. Subsequently the island was occupied by the French and then the British. In 1864, Corfu became a part of Greece. The influence of Corfu's many rulers is evident today in the character of the island, in its archaeological remains, in its historic buildings and in its cultural heritage. Culture
As a result of the
island's history, its culture leans more to the West than the East. Music is greatly appreciated, and there are a number of festivals and concert programmes. Brass bands are established in Corfu Town and in many villages. Art exhibitions run on regular basis. Religon
Christianity was
established early, and Greek Orthodox is the predominant religion, with
also a small Catholic community. Numerous churches add to the
attraction of the town's architecture, the most important being the
church of Saint Spiridon, patron saint of Corfu, whose relics are
paraded around the town in four annual processions. Easter is the most
important religious festival. There are many monasteries which can be visited, including the Pantokrator Monastery on Corfu. |
 My Family and Other Animals When the unconventional Durrell family can no longer endure the damp, gray English climate, they do what any sensible family would do: sell their house and relocate to the sunny Greek isle of Corfu. My Family and Other Animals was intended to embrace the natural history of the island but ended up as a delightful account of Durrell's family's experiences, from the many eccentric hangers-on to the ceaseless procession of puppies, toads, scorpions, geckoes, ladybugs, glowworms, octopuses, bats, and butterflies into their home.To purchase this book from Barnes and Noble click on the book. |