Holy Church of Saint Spyridon — Attraction in Municipality of Central Corfu and Diapontia Islands

After having viewed Saint Spyridon, I sat in the back of the church taking it all in. A little girl came to sit in my aisle, giggling and swinging her feet, nearly knocking over a lamp that looked more expensive than anything I could comfortably afford. Moments later her mom came over, checked on her, then reached out to me holding a basket asking for a donation for her and her child to which I obliged and they departed.

Not long thereafter, as I prayed, my prayer was interrupted by a vision. It was of people floating at sea as though they were stranded with nowhere to go - as though they had nothing to do but wait. It’s like that scene in Titanic, except in my mind's eye the water wasn’t freezing. With that as the landscape, Saint Spyridon said to me, in the spirit, “I just helped.”

I left the church knowing I’d been changed. Those three words have forever changed the way I look at the world around me. I now scan for opportunities to be helpful. I heard Saint Spyridon that day in a way that changed my mainframe processor - it was like receiving an upgrade to my system. It was a gift.

As I left the church that day, I’d nearly forgotten about the three candles I held throughout this time, but as I exited the church I noticed the candle cart to my right and the mother and child to my left and it turned out to be perfect that I’d bought three candles because I was able to give one to each of them in the hopes that they too would find meaning and light in this age-old ritual of Illuminating candles.

Later that evening, I researched Saint Spyridon and discovered reports of him posthumously saving people at sea. “Ah, that explains the vision of the people lost at sea,” I contemplated in awe and wonder.

If that weren’t enough validation of my vision, as I departed Corfu Island for my flight in Athens on the ferry, I was inexplicably compelled to speak with an elderly Greek man who stood peacefully watching the land approach. After mentioning my love of Corfu and of Saint Spyridon, his cheeks rose into what seemed to be a smile threatening to break, like the sun before it rises in the dawn, and he said in a thick Greek accent heavy with reverence, “This, he is my Saint”. He pointed to his left, as one might point to their child before referring to him in a conversation, and continued, “Saint Spyridon is with me right here and now. He lives with me day and night - always. He is with me always. He is my Saint.”

And with that, our ship pulled into the dock. We’d made it safely, but I have a feeling we’d be in good hands had anything gone awry while at sea.

Rest in peace, Saint Spyridon. Thank you for your mark on this world - and for changing my heart. I pray to always engage with the world with the perspective of “I...

The Holy Church of Saint Spyridon in Corfu Town, Greece, is one of the most significant religious sites on the island. It is dedicated to Saint Spyridon, the patron saint of Corfu, revered for his miracles and the protection he has provided to the island over centuries.

History & Importance Built in the late 16th century, the church houses the relics of Saint Spyridon, which were brought to Corfu from Constantinople in 1456 after the Ottoman conquest. The church has played a key role in Corfu's religious life, with the saint credited with saving the island multiple times—especially from the Ottoman invasions and a plague in the 17th century. Saint Spyridon is celebrated with four annual processions through Corfu Town, marking his miraculous interventions. Architecture The church features a Venetian-style bell tower, the tallest in Corfu, making it an iconic landmark. Its interior is richly decorated, with a stunning gilded ceiling, impressive frescoes, and intricate silver lamps. The marble iconostasis is particularly striking, showcasing fine craftsmanship. The Relics of Saint Spyridon The saint’s remains are kept in a sarcophagus made of silver and gold, located in a special side chapel. Pilgrims visit to venerate the relics, believing in their healing powers. Every year, thousands of worshippers come to pray and pay their respects. Visiting the Church The church is located in the heart of Corfu Old Town, near Liston Square. Entrance is free, but modest dress is recommended as it is an active place of worship. The best time to visit is during one of the processions (Palm Sunday, Easter Saturday, August 11, or the first Sunday of November) when the saint’s relics are carried...

A sacred and deeply respected place for Orthodox Christians. The incorrupt body of Saint Spyridon, the patron saint of Corfu, is kept here and venerated with reverence every day. The church has a peaceful and dignified atmosphere, with traditional Orthodox beauty and great spiritual presence.

It is fully air-conditioned, so even on the hottest summer days, the inside remains cool and calm, making it comfortable for everyone to visit without worry.

Modest dress is expected. For women, if a headscarf or shoulder covering is needed, the church kindly provides them just before the area where the saint’s relics are venerated.

The church is open daily from 7:00 in the morning until 8:00 in the evening. At the time of this review, the relics were typically opened for veneration around 5:00 to 6:30 pm, followed by a short evening prayer service. There is also a morning liturgy, and on certain days, the relics are opened again from approximately 9:30 am until 1:00 pm. These times may vary, so it is best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Located in the heart of Corfu Town, this is not only a historical site but a living place of prayer and faith. A visit here leaves a...