The currently visible building was constructed in the 5th century by the bishop Jovian on the ruins of a Roman conservatory. It was destroyed repeatedly in the 6th century (Vandals – Goths), 11th (Saracens – Normans), in 1537 (Turks) and during World War I. It was rebuilt in the 11th century as a three-aisled narthex and in 1680 by the Cretan monk Arsenios Kaloudis.
Location
39.607632,19.922373
Chronology
Built in the 5th century by the bishop Jovian on the ruins of a Roman conservatory. It was rebuilt in the 11th century as a three-aisled narthex, and in 1680 by the Cretan monk Arsenios Kaloudis
Visible / Reachable by public?
Yes, reachable by the public.
Heritage Value
Palaiopolis is located on the peninsula south of the current town, where ancient Corfu was built. Its most important monument is the Basilica of Palaeopolis, which was built in the 5th century by the bishop Jovian on the ruins of a Roman conservatory. It was destroyed repeatedly in the 6th century, (Vandals – Goths), 11th (Saracens – Normans), 1537 (Turks) and 1st World War. It was rebuilt in the 11th century as a three-aisled narthex and in 1680 by the Cretan monk Arsenios Kaloudis. In 1968, all pieces of the paleo-Christian architectural members, shrouds, columnists, princes, etc. were collected and stored at the Old Palace Museum. In 1960 and 1969 mosaic maintenance work was carried out. In 15th century it used to be a part of major monastery establishment dedicated to Panaghia Anaphonitria (Παναγία Αναφωνήτρια). The church was deserted and bombed during the 2nd World War.
Touristic exploitation
Yes, admittance on working days, 08:30-15:00
Eco-Touristic added value
The church is in a landscape of great beauty, with birds and flowers, but also within an urban territory. Apart from that, it is near a park with trees and a fountain, while the Mon Repos installations, where a Palace is sited, are also in high vicinity. A public and a private beach is a parallel attraction to site visitors. Visit combination of the archaeological site and the beach. Visit to the park, as well as to the ‘lake’ of the Hyllaic port, two sites that have also a pristine seascape and landscape will guarantee the sustainability of the site. Natural environment and also urban territory.
Proposed activities
Walking tour through the ancient harbors of Palaiopolis and the Hyllaic Harbor. Cycling under olive and pine trees. Guided tour in Palaeopolis ruins. Cycling tour all over the area, in the peninsula hosting the two ancient harbours. Swimming activities in Anemomylos vicinity and Mon Repos. A modern open theater (Mon Repos) is also nearby.
