Ropa’s Villages
Our villa is located in the southern part of the magnificent Ropa Valley, a vast expanse in the central region of Corfu that holds an even greater history. From the nearby village of Kokkini to the village of Lapades on the northern side of the valley, you will have the opportunity to discover unique secrets of Corfu’s countryside, its culture, and the island’s traditions.
Just 2.5 kilometers away from our enchanting location, you will find a small settlement whose history is lost in time, Venetian records, and historical documents. This is Kokkini, a tiny village with few inhabitants but with significant cultural features. Built on a small, lush green hill, Kokkini is known for its old houses and the manor of the Kokkinis family, from which it derives its name. Specifically, Lord Kokkinis was granted this area as a fief by the Venetians as a reward for his service as a Governor on one of the four Corfiot galleys that participated in the famous Battle of Lepanto. This unique manor dates back to the early 17th century and is of particular architectural interest, following the style of noble estates of past centuries. The settlement is well worth a visit, as its narrow streets and closely packed old houses create a picturesque and timeless setting.
Continuing our journey north of Vatos and Ermones, the first village we encounter is Giannades, a settlement nestled in greenery, rich in history, and filled with legends of noble estates, feudal lords, and historic churches. The village is home to buildings that have stood for centuries, with many dating back to the 17th or even the 16th century. Of particular interest is the Church of Saint Nicholas, adorned with ancient frescoes. Due to its advantageous location overlooking the fertile Ropa Valley, Giannades has been a center of trade since the feudal era and remained so until Corfu was united with Greece in 1864.
A short distance from Giannades, we find another small village. Marmaro is a tiny settlement that flourished particularly during the Venetian rule. Its most distinctive feature is the beautiful stone-built bridge that connects the village, still in excellent condition today, serving as a reminder of its former prosperity. In the village center, you will find the Church of Saint Marina, while nature lovers and explorers will enjoy discovering numerous small chapels and shrines scattered across the lush green slopes surrounding Marmaro.
Right next to Marmaro lies the third village that overlooks the Ropa Valley—Kanakades. Primarily an agricultural village, Kanakades is a charming settlement characterized by old houses painted in vibrant colors. Like Giannades, Kanakades played a crucial role during the Venetian period as a hub for the region’s agricultural production. If you are particularly observant, you may notice the ruins of a fortified manor perched atop a steep rock overlooking the village. This was the seat of the Marcello Barony during Venetian rule, which controlled almost the entire Ropa Valley. It was here that all the agricultural produce of the region—olives, grapes, and cereals—was gathered and delivered by tenant farmers to the local feudal lord.
Having introduced the villages of the area, at least those that still stand today, it is worth mentioning one more that no longer exists. This is the now-lost village of Ropa, which was established in the late 17th century. As expected, it became a focal point for the local farming population, but over time, it lost its significance and was completely abandoned in the early decades of the 20th century.
The Ropa Valley offers an ideal first glimpse into the Corfiot countryside. Starting from Villa Kapella, you will have the opportunity to explore a region of Corfu that remains untouched by mass tourism, preserving the rhythms of a bygone era, vastly different from modern times. This tranquil landscape invites you to immerse yourself in an authentic experience of Corfu’s rural heritage, connecting you with the island’s past while enjoying its unspoiled natural beauty. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or simply the serenity of the countryside, the Ropa Valley and its surrounding villages promise a journey through time and tradition, offering a rare glimpse into the soul of Corfu.
