The Islets of Vido and Lazareto
The landmarks of Corfu Town are bound to captivate the attention of every visitor. This unique island in the Ionian Sea, close to the enchanting and cosmopolitan town, is home to two small islands with significant historical backgrounds. Vido and Lazaretto, located to the north of Corfu Town, are two of the most intriguing and historically rich points on the island. Each island has its own unique story and characteristics, making them vital for understanding Corfu’s cultural heritage.
The more famous of the two is undoubtedly Vido Island, located just opposite the Old Venetian Fortress and the historic Venetian town of Corfu. Its name most likely comes from the noble Guido Malipiero, who owned the island during the Middle Ages. In the past, it was known as “Ptychía” or “Saint Stephen” due to the church dedicated to Saint Stephen that stood at the center of the island. During Venetian rule, the island was used for military purposes, with fortifications and strongholds being built. The French, during their occupation, named the island “Île de la paix” (Island of Peace), while the British heavily fortified it, creating the Fort of Saint George, Wellington Fort, and several other fortifications. After the British withdrawal, the forts were blown up, leaving only ruins. In 1926, a new church dedicated to Saint Stephen was built on the foundations of the destroyed one. Unfortunately, this church was destroyed by the Germans in 1944. Today, Vido Island belongs to the Municipality of Corfu and is accessible to visitors. They can enjoy the island’s natural beauty, visit the Mausoleum of the Serbian soldiers who died on Corfu during World War I, and explore the remains of the fortifications. This small island hosts the Scouts of Corfu once a year, specifically in the summer months. This tradition allows hundreds of children to engage with nature, learn about the history of their homeland, and enjoy carefree moments away from the bustling modern city.
Just a few kilometers west of Vido lies Lazaretto Island, which has a darker and more melancholic history. Access to the island can be made either via the port of Corfu or through the Gouvia Marina. The name comes from its use as a quarantine station during Venetian rule, where sailors who arrived on the island after visiting areas with plague or other infectious diseases were required to remain there for 40 days. After the liberation of the island, Lazaretto was used as a place of execution for death row prisoners, mostly political ones, during the period between 1946 and 1954. Executions were carried out by detachments from the Corfu Infantry Reserve Officer School, and the executed prisoners were buried in unmarked graves. Today, Lazaretto stands as a living historical monument, but it is rarely visited by tourists. However, architectural remnants of nearly all phases of the island’s history still remain, such as the roofless church, a two-story building made of solid bricks, and a part of the perimeter wall of the quarantine station, which became the wall of executions. The history of Lazaretto serves as a reminder of the dark moments of the past and the need to preserve the memory of these events.
Despite their contrasting histories, Vido and Lazaretto Islands are both significant for understanding the cultural and historical heritage of Corfu. Visiting these islands offers a unique opportunity to explore the island’s rich history and natural beauty. Moreover, it gives visitors the chance to step away from the modern tourist resorts, crowded beaches, and fast-paced rhythms of the city, taking a step back in time to discover a well-hidden part of Corfu’s history.
