b'CORFU: EXPLORING THEScan here ISLANDS RICH LEGACY for the full itineraryTHE ARCHAEOLOGY AND HISTORY OF AN IONIAN TREASURE1925 May 2026 Historical Background7 days In Greek mythology Corfu was the utopian Scheria, home of the Phaeacians, Expert Historian: and where Odysseus was cast up on his return to Ithaca. The island became a Major General Corinthian colony by around 735 BC but its quarrel with its mainland overlords became a contributing factor in the outbreak of the Peloponnesian Wars Ashley Truluck(431- 404 BC). Changing hands several times over the ensuing centuries Activity Level: 2 Corfu became a Roman free state and in 31BC was used as a naval base by the Emperor Octavian against Mark Anthony. Under the Byzantine (Eastern) Roman This 6-night and 7-day tour explores someEmpire Corfu suffered attacks by Vandals and pirates which led to a period of of the best archaeological and historic sitesdepopulation and decline. The island fell to a succession of invadersArabs, on the island of Corfu. Based out of a luxuryLombards, Saracens, Normans - and became a pawn between the kings of hotel in Corfu Town we visit a range of sitesSicily and the city-states of Genoa and Venice.representing every era of Corfus rich andIn 1214 Corfu came under the Greek Despotate of Epirus before falling to the multilayered history: from the Greek templesAngevins by the end of the century. In 1368 it was taken by the Venetians who of Kardaki and Artemis Gorgo through to theheld it until 1797. This forms the most significant period in the islands history Byzantine Monastery of Paleokastritsa andand the Venetians have left an indelible mark in Corfus architecture, particularly the magnificent neoclassical palaces atin Corfu Town. After coming under French and even Russian control during the Achillio and Mon Repos. The islands superbNapoleonic wars the island passed to Britain who occupied it for half a century. museums are a key feature of this tourSome of the grandest buildings date from this period including the Palace of St where we reinforce our understanding ofMichael and St George and the Mon Repos estate. Corfu was ceded to Greece Corfus fascinating story and marvel over thein 1864. In World War One it remarkable remains and artefacts that are thewas the terminus for the pride of the island. And acting as the toursGreat Retreat of the Serbian centrepiece is the charming Corfu Town, aArmy across the Balkans consummate Venetian settlement of statelywhen out of 400,000 who set Italianate architecture and influences, hintingout only 180,000 made it to at the islands complex identities.the island. Occupied by Italy Staying in a luxury hotel and enjoyingin World War Two it was the fine cuisine and wines this is a perfectscene of German massacres opportunity to explore the islands engagingof surrendering Italian troops. history in the company of our host historianSince the war Corfu has and local guides. The tour will involvebecome a favourite holiday exploring the old town on foot and althoughdestination and tourism is now most surfaces are flat there are also steps the mainstay of the economy.to negotiate. Day 1Arrival: fly London to Corfu Hotel in Corfu Town for 6 nights Welcome drinks and introductory talk (D)Day 2 Classical & Early Christian period: incl Tomb of Menekratis, Mon Repos and Palaeopolis Museum, Vlachernes Monastery, Pontikonissi (Mouse) Island, Sanctuary of Armitis Gorgo, Archaeological Museum (B,D)Day 3 Byzantine / Venetian period: walking tour of Corfu Town incl New Castle, Old Quarter, Jewish Quarter, Cathedral, St Spyridons Church, Town Hall Free time (B,D)Day 4 Ottoman raids: Gouva (old Venetian naval base), Kassiopi Castle, Old Perithia, Aghious Stephanos, Paliokastritsa Monastery, Angelokastro Castle (B)Day 5 Colonial period: Corfu Town, incl Old Castle, Esplanade, Palace of St Michael ESSENTIALS & St George; Reading Society, Anthon, Douglas Obelisk, British Cemetery 4-star hotels, meals as indicated,Free time (B,D)drinks with dinner, all entrance fees,Day 6Modern period: Casa Parlante, Vido Island, Achillion Palace, Kaisers tour manager and expert historianObservatory (B,D)throughout, all internal travel, Day 7Home: fly Corfu to London or extend stay on island (B)optional travel from UK.715926 TCE BROCHURE 2025-26_Aug25.indd 71 22/08/2025 13:35'