Gardiki Castle

This ruin from the 13th century was built in roughly the same period in the history of Corfu as Angelokastro. Reportedly, even by the same person. The Byzantines again were involved with this fort, which was built as a watch-post for the south of Corfu. In fact, the Byzantines were responsible for many of the ancient and huge buildings on Corfu. It is beyond doubt that they were excellent builders. Many of their works have stood the test of time and attack and it is possible witness their workmanship here and at several other buildings on Corfu.

Cultural Corfu

However, it is not at its best anymore; do not expect beautiful finished rooms with magnificent canopies, turrets, gables and a moat with drawbridge. It is not exactly in the state of, let us say, Windsor Castle.
Yet a visit to Castle Gardiki is definitely not a wasted effort. The former fort was built as a kind of elliptical octagon. Honestly! Even if you cannot see not when you are inside, you can check it out on Google Maps. On the parapets, you can still see the traces of the carvings and workmanship of the Byzantine craftsmen. It is obvious that they paid a lot of attention to detail to even something as functional as a fortress. It is all well preserved. Furthermore, it is also clear that it is a ruin, only the outer walls are still standing; the inner stones probably now part of some local house or wall. The former bastion still serves the local community, now being used as a venue for cultural events, theater and music.

Amidst Corfu nature

Gardiki Castle is still standing proud, surrounded by beautiful nature. However, nature is doing what the attackers of old were unable to do and is now slowing invading the stone monster. Both inside and outside the fort is resplendent with the beautiful flowers of Corfu and creeping vines and ivies. As a beautiful symbol of the friendly way in which nature has appropriated the fort, there is, just before the main entrance, a beautiful and very old olive tree.

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