Palaiochora: A Glimpse into Corfu's Past
Explore the ancient ruins of Palaiochora near Palaiokastritsa for panoramic views and a glimpse into Corfu's captivating past.
Palaiochora, aptly named "old village," is a captivating historical site near Palaiokastritsa, Corfu, offering a glimpse into the island's past. Perched on a hill, the ruins of Palaiochora whisper tales of a bygone era, inviting visitors to explore its abandoned buildings and imagine life in this once-bustling settlement. Though not much is definitively known about the village's early history, it's believed that Palaiochora may have been one of Corfu's earliest settlements, potentially even preceding Corfu Town as the island's center. The village was eventually abandoned as residents sought safer ground further inland, such as Lakones, to evade pirate attacks. Today, Palaiochora stands as a testament to Corfu's strategic importance throughout history. Exploring the ruins offers a unique perspective on the region, with panoramic views of the coastline, the Ionian Sea, and the surrounding landscape. The remnants of old monasteries and other structures provide a tangible connection to the past, inviting contemplation and reflection. The hike up to Palaiochora can be an adventure in itself, with a somewhat challenging path that rewards visitors with stunning vistas. While the path may be overgrown in places, the green arrow markings guide you to the top. Comfortable shoes are recommended for navigating the terrain. While in Palaiokastritsa, a visit to Palaiochora offers a richer understanding of Corfu's history and provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the island's enduring beauty and cultural heritage.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the path to Palaiochora can be uneven and rocky.
- Bring water, especially during warmer months, as there are no facilities on site.
- Follow the green arrow markings to stay on the correct path to the ruins.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.
A brief summary to Palaiochora
- Palaiokastritsa, 490 83, GR
Getting There
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Walking
From the main beach area in Palaiokastritsa, head east along the coastal road towards the Paleokastritsa Monastery. Continue past the monastery, keeping an eye out for a path on your left. This path, marked with green arrows, leads uphill to Palaiochora. The walk takes approximately 25-30 minutes. Note that the path can be overgrown and rocky in places, so wear appropriate footwear.
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Public Transport
From Corfu Town, take the Green Bus to Palaiokastritsa. Buses depart frequently from the Corfu Town bus station. The fare is around €3-5. From Palaiokastritsa, follow the walking directions to Palaiochora. Check the local bus schedule for the most up-to-date times.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Palaiokastritsa and can take you to the base of the path leading up to Palaiochora. Ask your hotel or a local shop to call a taxi for you. The taxi fare from Palaiokastritsa to the trailhead will be a short-trip fare, costing approximately €10-€15. From there, follow the walking directions to reach the site.
