Corfu, Greece
We docked at the Greek island of Corfu, along with four other cruise ships! Yes, Corfu is the 19th most popular island in the world for tourism and #1 in this part of the world. It has a lot of history dating back to the Phoenician period. Central to this region, it was constantly invaded, resulting in numerous changes in rulers. The central town has a fairly uniform and worn out look, but there are touches of the different occupying cultures throughout, along with an abundance of shops and indoor/outdoor cafes. And tourists. And pigeons.
We also stopped at the Mons Repo Palace. A verdant site that was the longtime home of the Austro-Hungarian emperor's wife. And it is also the birthplace of British Queen Elizabeth's husband, Prince Philip.
The old fortress of Corfu, which did not seem to deter invaders.
Lots of alfresco dining.
Lots of small touristy shops.
And at times, lots of people.
The Mon Repos Palace.
Built for the High Commissioner’s wife, it remained a cultural center until 1864. Afterwards it was a home to royalty, including Queen Elizabeth’s mother-in-law, who gave birth to Elizabeth’s husband there.
Despite the crowds, Corfu still exhibits great beauty.
