Statue of Count Von Der Schulenburg — Attraction in Municipality of Central Corfu and Diapontia Islands

Because of its strategic location at the mouth of the Adriatic Sea, beginning in 1537 the Ottomans made several attempts to capture the island of Corfu as a stepping stone into the Adriatic and onto the riches of Venice! Then, in 1716, the Ottomans made another attempt but this time with an army of some 33,000 men they besieged Corfu which at the time held by the Republic of Venice! Erected by the Venetian Senate in 1720, this beautiful marble statue honors the amazing Johann Matthias von der Schulenburg who, in 1716, as commander-in-chief with just 5,000 men,, successfully defended Corfu against the 1716 Turkish invasion and prevented the Ottoman's intrusion into the Adriatic and the likely invasion of Venice.

When I visited the old town I noticed that there are a number of statues in this area but just before entering and roaming through the amazing Old Venetian Fortress, this imposing statue caught my attention. I recall that after reading its plaque, I wondered what the possible connection between a German military man and Venice could be! History is a...

The Statue of Count von der Schulenburg in Corfu Town, Greece, honors Johann Matthias von der Schulenburg, a German-born marshal of the Venetian army. He played a crucial role in defending Corfu against the Ottoman siege of 1716.

Who Was Count von der Schulenburg? Born in 1661 in Germany, Schulenburg became a distinguished military leader. In 1716, while serving the Republic of Venice, he led the successful defense of Corfu against a massive Ottoman invasion. His victory was critical in keeping Corfu and the Ionian Islands under Venetian rule. About the Statue The statue was commissioned by the Venetians in gratitude for his victory. It stands near the Old Fortress of Corfu, symbolizing the island’s resilience. The monument depicts Schulenburg in full military attire, with an authoritative stance. Historical Significance The Siege of Corfu (1716) was a defining moment in the island’s history, preventing Ottoman expansion further into Europe. Schulenburg is still remembered as a hero in Corfu for his leadership...

The German general Matthias von der Schulenburg (1661-1747) was the last great general of the Serenissima Republic of Venice. He organized the defence of Corfu against the last Turkish siege in 1716, during which the Turks failed to conquer the island. Schulenburg built additional fortifications and undertook the command and the encouragement of his army consisting of 5.000 men when the camp of the enemy numbered 33.000. The Venetian Senate, in honor of his accomplishments, erected his statue while he was still alive, by means of a special and rare decision. The work was created by the Venetian sculptor Antonio Corradini (1668-1745) of white Carrara marble. It was initially placed inside the Old Fort at the northwestern corner of the small square located after the bridge of the Land moat. Later, it was moved by the British to the Spianada, next to the entrance to the Fort. The general is depicted in the garments of a Roman military officer standing on a high, baroque-style base, decorated with relief prizes. [Tourist...