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The Clock Tower of Corfu: A Timeless Landmark

A historic clock tower in Corfu's Old Fortress, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's Venetian, French, and British past.

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The Clock Tower, situated within the Old Fortress of Corfu Town, stands as a prominent historical marker. Built by the British in the 19th century, it offers a glimpse into the island's diverse past and provides stunning views of the surrounding cityscape and Ionian Sea.

A brief summary to Clock Tower

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the Old Fortress has uneven surfaces and requires some walking to reach the Clock Tower.
  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the Old Fortress to fully appreciate the history and significance of the site.
  • Check for local events or festivals, as the Old Fortress often hosts cultural performances and exhibitions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Liston Square, walk east towards the Old Fortress. Cross the Contrafossa moat via the bridge. Enter the fortress and follow the main path uphill. The Clock Tower will be visible on your right, situated atop a prominent fortification. No entrance fee is required to access the fortress, but some internal exhibits may have a charge.

  • Public Transport

    Take a Blue Bus to San Rocco Square. From there, walk east towards Liston Square and the Old Fortress. Cross the Contrafossa moat via the bridge. Enter the fortress and follow the main path uphill. The Clock Tower will be visible on your right, situated atop a prominent fortification. Blue Bus tickets cost between €1.10 and €1.80 if purchased at a kiosk, or €1.50 when bought on board. A day ticket is available for €5.

  • Taxi

    Take a taxi to the entrance of the Old Fortress near Spianada Square. Enter the fortress and follow the main path uphill. The Clock Tower will be visible on your right, situated atop a prominent fortification. A taxi from Corfu Town to the Old Fortress will cost approximately €6-€11, depending on traffic and the exact location.

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Discover more about Clock Tower

The Clock Tower is located within the Old Fortress of Corfu, a historic site with roots stretching back to the 6th century AD. The fortress itself has been shaped by various rulers, including the Byzantines, Venetians, and British. The Clock Tower, specifically, was erected during the British protectorate between 1848 and 1850. It was likely built to replace an older Venetian clock tower that was demolished to make way for new barracks. The tower's architecture showcases neoclassical elements, featuring Tuscan columns and cornices. The structure is made of coated bricks in its lower section, transitioning to hand-carved Maltese limestone in the upper part. Three of the tower's four sides feature clock faces, while arched windows sit slightly below. Inside, a wooden staircase leads to the clock mechanism and the bells. The bells themselves have an interesting history. The largest bell is of Venetian origin, dating back to 1732 and adorned with a winged lion relief. Two other bells were made in London in 1827. In 1950, a Greek company, Karamanos, installed a new clock mechanism. The tower's bell, cast from melted cannons, continues to mark each hour. Today, the Clock Tower stands as a testament to Corfu's rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of Corfu Town and the Ionian Sea. The Old Fortress, including the Clock Tower, attracts over 200,000 visitors annually.

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