Spianada Square — Attraction in Municipality of Central Corfu and Diapontia Islands

Spianada Square: The Heartbeat of Corfu's Timeless Elegance

Nestled in the heart of Corfu Town, Spianada Square stands as one of Greece’s most enchanting open spaces, steeped in history, beauty, and cultural charm. As the largest square in the Balkans, its grandeur is evident from the moment you step onto its broad, sunlit pathways.

A Blend of History and Modernity Dating back to the Venetian rule, Spianada Square exudes a unique atmosphere where the past and present coexist harmoniously. On one side, the imposing Old Fortress keeps watch over the square, while on the other, stately mansions and the neoclassical Palace of St. Michael and St. George echo the elegance of a bygone era. Yet, it’s not just history that defines this space—locals and tourists alike gather here to enjoy modern-day Corfu, with outdoor cafés, leisurely strolls, and spontaneous street performances adding a vibrant energy.

The Perfect Place to Pause Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a place to relax, Spianada offers a sanctuary. Take a seat on one of the many benches shaded by lush greenery and admire the iconic Liston Arcade, with its beautiful arcades inspired by the Rue de Rivoli in Paris. The square’s meticulously manicured lawns and gardens, combined with the scent of orange blossoms, create a peaceful, almost dreamlike atmosphere.

A Cultural Hub Spianada isn’t just about visual splendor—it’s the epicenter of Corfu’s cultural life. Throughout the year, it hosts events, parades, and festivals, most notably the renowned Easter celebrations and philharmonic orchestras that fill the air with classical music. The square’s vibrant atmosphere transforms with the seasons, making it a year-round destination for anyone seeking to experience Corfu’s unique spirit.

Unforgettable Views Climbing up to the Old Fortress from Spianada rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the square, the Ionian Sea, and Corfu Town’s picturesque skyline. As the sun sets, the square comes alive with golden hues, creating an unforgettable backdrop for an evening stroll.

Final Thoughts Spianada Square is more than just a public space—it's a living, breathing part of Corfu's soul. Whether you’re immersing yourself in its history, enjoying its serene atmosphere, or simply passing through on your way to explore Corfu Town, Spianada leaves an indelible impression. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, allowing you to savor the simple beauty of Greek island life. A visit to Corfu is simply incomplete without spending time in this...

A mixture of park and town square, the Esplanade, or Spianada , is one of the reasons Corfu town is such an attractive place. Its grand expanse offers relief from the packed streets in summer, as do the shady park benches and the elegant arcade known as the Liston, which is lined with many good cafes.

The Liston was built in 1807 on the orders of French imperial commissioner Mathieu de Lesseps. The name “ Liston” comes from the Venetian practice of having a “List “ of noble families in the Libro d’Oro or Golden Book- only those on it were allowed to walk here.

Near the fountain is the Enosis Monument: the word enosis means “unification “ , and this celebrates the 1864 union of the Ionian islands with the rest of Greece, when British rule came to an end. The marble monument has carvings symbolizing each of the Ionian Islands. A statue of Corfiot Ioannis Kapodistriss, modern Greece’s first head of state in 1827, stands at the end of the street that flanks the Esplanade and...

A beautiful and important part of Corfu Town. The square is full of life, surrounded by elegant buildings, traditional cafés, restaurants, shops and peaceful walking paths. There is a warm local atmosphere throughout the day and evening, and the views of the Old Fortress are truly impressive.

At the heart of the square stands the Church of Saint Spyridon, a deeply respected place of pilgrimage for Orthodox Christians. It houses the holy relics (incorrupt body) of Saint Spyridon, and many faithful visit with reverence throughout the year. The church is peaceful, dignified, and fully air-conditioned, so you can enter comfortably even in the summer heat.

There is a public car park next to the square, which is very convenient, but often gets busy. At peak times, the wait to enter can be over 30 minutes.

A unique place where faith, history and everyday Corfiot life come together. Truly...