Unprecedented Tranquility

Old Perithia is unlike any other village, with its unique blend of history, architecture and Corfiot cuisine.

In the north of Corfu, on the slopes of Mt Pantokrator, unseen and suspended between the sea and the sky, the rich history and Venetian architecture of Old Perithia are like something out of a film. Hiking tours in spring and fall offer unique surprises. Tulips, cyclamen, wild orchids, rare herbs and blue anemones grow, hawks and eagles soar, and stone houses stand on its historical cobbled streets. An unprecedented sense of peace and tranquility prevails in the air. With some structures dating from the 14th century, the former ghost town of Old Perithia is the oldest, wealthiest village in Corfu.

In 1979, the Ministry of Culture dubbed it a monument of cultural heritage and architectural wealth requiring state protection. Since then, its public buildings and eight Byzantine churches have undergone restoration following strict criteria. For Corfiots and visitors, Old Perithia is synonymous with good food and enjoyable walks. One starts from the heart of the village and reaches the Holy Monastery of the High Pantocrator, founded in the first half of the 14th century.

Since then, it has stood proudly on the island’s highest point. As walking whets the appetite, all the tavernas serve authentic Corfiot cuisine with local ingredients. Try the Sofrito (beef in rich gravy), Tsigareli (cabbage with tomatoes, spicy peppers, potatoes, dill and parsley) with wild greens, Pastitsada (spaghetti with rooster), Sikomaida (a dessert of figs) and Portokali Glyko (a dessert of oranges). Don’t forget to try the local honey, or you might regret it!

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Text & Images : Julia Klimi