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Old Fortress Lighthouse: A Beacon of History in Corfu

Explore Corfu's maritime history at the Old Fortress Lighthouse, offering stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's Venetian past.

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Perched atop the Old Fortress in Corfu Town, the Old Fortress Lighthouse is a testament to the island's rich maritime past and Venetian architectural influence. Built during British rule in the 19th century, it offers panoramic views of the coastline and the Ionian Sea, making it a must-see for history buffs and photography enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Old Fortress Lighthouse

  • Corfu, 491 00, GR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the fortress involves a fair amount of walking and climbing on uneven surfaces.
  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting conditions for photography and to avoid the midday heat.
  • Check for events happening within the fortress, such as music concerts or art exhibitions, to enhance your visit.
  • Purchase a multi-ticket for 10 EUR to access the Old Fortress and other museums in Corfu, such as the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Asian Art.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Spianada Square, the main square in Corfu Town, walk east towards the Old Fortress. The entrance is located directly across from the Liston. Cross the bridge over the Contrafossa moat to enter the fortress. Follow the signs within the fortress to reach the Lighthouse. Allow approximately 20 minutes to walk from the entrance of the fortress to the lighthouse.

  • Public Transport

    Take Blue Bus No. 2A, which stops near the entrance to the Old Fortress. From the bus stop, walk across Spianada Square towards the Liston, and then proceed to the fortress entrance. Cross the bridge over the Contrafossa moat to enter the fortress. Follow the signs within the fortress to reach the Lighthouse. Bus tickets cost approximately €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis can drop you off near the entrance of the Old Fortress, close to Spianada Square. From there, walk across the square towards the Liston and the fortress entrance. Cross the bridge over the Contrafossa moat to enter the fortress. Follow the signs within the fortress to reach the Lighthouse. A short taxi ride from Corfu Town to the Old Fortress costs approximately €4-€6.

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Discover more about Old Fortress Lighthouse

The Old Fortress Lighthouse, or 'Faros tou Palaio Frouriou' as it's known locally, stands proudly on the eastern end of the Old Fortress in Corfu. This iconic landmark, constructed by the British in the 19th century, sits atop a fortress originally built by the Venetians in the 15th century to protect the island from invasion. The lighthouse has been a guiding beacon for ships navigating the Ionian Sea for generations and remains an integral part of Corfu's maritime heritage. Visitors can access the lighthouse through the Old Fortress, offering a scenic walk filled with historical sights, including ancient ruins, Venetian-era architecture, and verdant greenery. The climb to the top of the lighthouse rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of Corfu Town, the coastline, and the sparkling Ionian Sea. The lighthouse's neoclassical design provides a stunning backdrop for photographers, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Inside the Old Fortress, explore other significant landmarks such as the Church of St. George, reminiscent of an ancient Doric temple, and the historical archive that showcases over 600 years of history. Once serving as a British military hospital, the fortress now houses the Music Department of the Ionian University and a museum displaying Byzantine artifacts. The fortress itself is a masterpiece of fortification art, featuring Venetian emblems, stone staircases, and canons that echo tales of past sieges and battles.

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