Monuments to visit Iles grecques

Built in 1628 by F. Morosini, the Loggia, an emblematic building of the Venetian period, was the building where the nobility and the authorities of Candia gathered to discuss or consult each other on political, economic and commercial matters. Deprived of its functions during the Ottoman period and destroyed during the Second World War, it was scrupulously rebuilt in the same place. It is a beautiful building to visit on a walk. At the northern exit, the small Sacredo fountain has remained intact over time.

The ruins of the Venetian bridge used to cross the now dry torrent are admirable. A still visible work of art that would go almost unnoticed. The most symbolic figure of the entry or exit of Samaria.

Built in 1300 by Jean Orsini, it has been restored many times by the Venetians and the Ottomans.

It's the highest point on the island. Built in 1880 by the French Ottoman Lighthouse Company, it was the second most powerful lighthouse in the world at the time. Located at an altitude of 360 m, its light covered a distance of 42 miles. However, at the slightest fog, the lighthouse became completely ineffective. Recently renovated, it has been fitted with a café and a souvenir shop in an architectural style that can be controversial. Nevertheless, it is very pleasant to have a drink in front of the setting sun in this unique site.

In the middle of the mountains of Kythera, you will discover the remains of the island's former capital. The citadel, built in the 12th century by workers from the town of Monemvasia (Peloponnese), 216 m high on two gorges, was invisible from the sea. The terrible admiral of the Turkish fleet and former pirate Khayr ad-Dîn Barbarousse discovered it, besieged it and completely destroyed it in 1537. On the site, you will see the ruins of 80 houses and 20 churches. The church of Agia Varvara is still well preserved and deserves to be visited.

This islet is surmounted by a 15th century Venetian fortress that can be visited only on request. In 1423, the local Venetian lord Adam II San Ippolito asked the Venetian Senate for permission to build a castle - at his own expense - to protect the small island complex from piracy. Permission was granted and the castle was built. Some fortifications, cannons and two churches remain today.

It's well known that German Emperor Wilhelm II was very fond of Corfu and bought the Achilleion Palace in 1907. Carl Ludwig Sprenger was appointed the palace's botanical architect and was responsible for building the bridge leading to the beach, so as to avoid crossing the island's main road. Naturally, the bridge takes its name from the Kaiser, and was named in homage to its owner. There's nothing extraordinary on site to justify driving miles on purpose. But if you're in the area, the view is beautiful and can extend your visit to the Achilleion.