| The two names of
the island are thought to have originated from previous occupants. The Eretrians
who colonised the Kanoni peninsular south of the present Corfu town may have named their
settlement Corcyra (Kerkyra) after a mythological goddess, whereas the modern name Corfu
is thought to have come from the twin peaks or Korphai where the old fortress now stands.
The island's history is colourful and
complex. After its occupation by the Eretrians, a succession of others took
possession including the Corinthians, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, French and British.
All have left their mark on present day Corfu, both architecturally and culturally,
although sadly many of the medieval and Venetian buildings were lost to Italian and
German bombing during World War Two.
|
Venetians.
Olives are gathered every year for their oil, but it's only
every second year that a really good crop is harvested. Nets are placed under the trees
and the fallen olives are collected for crushing to extract the oil. The collection
period can run from November through to March.
It is the abundance of
flowers that attract the numerous and colourful butterflies and moths. A common
butterfly seen around Corfu during the summer months is the Scarce Swallowtail. The
unusual wing shape and markings give the appearance that it is flying backwards.
The spring and
autumn also sees the passage of migrant birds including the swallows and swifts whose
return heralds the arrival of summer. It is not unusual to see the remains and markings
of nests from years past under the porches and eaves of the buildings. It
is said that the swallows return to last year's nesting place to start a new family.
Despite the mess made on the floor by the young birds the Corfiot people are very
tolerant of their presence.