In Afra, Corfu, there is a stone bridge with a single arch and the villa of the Kourkoumelis-Rodostamaos family; the Μορφωτικός Πολιτιστικός Σύλλογος Άφρας is also based here. These local landmarks range from distinctive architectural details to efforts to share the area's cultural heritage.

Culture and Architecture in Afra

The Μορφωτικός Πολιτιστικός Σύλλογος Άφρας was founded on 25 May 1984 and is based in Afra, Corfu. It works to preserve and share the area's cultural heritage through educational activities and events involving young people from the surrounding area. The local cultural perspective thus encompasses both specific buildings and the transmission of knowledge and community activities.

The villa of the Kourkoumelis-Rodostamaos family is also located in Afra. The stone bridge, by contrast, can be described in particular detail through its architecture: it has an elliptical arch, finely crafted relief projections at the base of the arch on the piers, and a slightly projecting cornice with carefully dressed wedge-shaped stones. The year the bridge was built and the name of its builder are unknown. The combination of clearly identifiable architectural features and the unanswered question of its origins makes it a notable local cultural monument.

Corfu as the Wider Context

There are other historical points of interest on Corfu beyond Afra. Corfu's Old Town has preserved almost all of its historic urban fabric; its buildings date from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. The Old Town and its two fortresses are UNESCO World Heritage sites. A digital guide to the Old Town, described in 2023, is aimed at residents and visitors and offers audiovisual material on more than 80 sights. Check whether the guide is available before your trip.

The Museum of Asian Art in the Old Town houses more than 11,000 objects from China, Japan, India, the Himalayas, and Central Asia. From Corfu port, the museum can be reached on bus route 2, which runs between Mantouki and Kanoni; check the timetable before travelling. The Gorgon Medusa pediment of the great Temple of Artemis is on display at the Archaeological Museum of Corfu. It dates from 585 BC and was excavated in 1911 near the Aghioi Theodoroi Monastery. The museum was built primarily to display this pediment.

Corfu also offers a variety of hiking opportunities. In the municipal unit of Achilleion, ancient paths wind through the wooded mountains of Agii Deka, Stavros, and Garouna. The 180-kilometre Corfu Trail passes through several settlements; Benitses is one of its 13 overnight stops. On Corfu, the choices range from paths through wooded mountains to the 180-kilometre Corfu Trail.

Discover more destinations: Spartilas, Agios Ioannis, Mesongi, Katavolos, Ano Korakiana, Giannades, Arillas Magouladon, Vitalades.

For the wider travel overview: Corfu.