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Κέρκυρα, 18.03.2010
21:53
A Documentary about the "Filarmonic Society of Corfu" (in greek)
» John's Corfu Blog

Here is an ERT3 documentary that was aired last year about the most ancient wind band in Greece, the Filarmonic Society of Corfu (est. 1840). If you want to download it, I have already posted the download links in February 2009 post.

It is in three parts and it is approximately 40 minutes long.

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Κέρκυρα, 10.03.2010
14:05
Corfu in detail 4: Milestone in Villa Rosa
» John's Corfu Blog

Most of you may haven't noticed the ancient milestone on the narrow pavement right outside Villa Rosa. Villa Rossa is on the southern part of Donatou Dimoulitsa street which becomes the Lefkimmis national road a few hundred metres down the road. This road is always busy with traffic as it's the southern entrance to Corfu Town.

Looking at the milestone, it has an arrow and the letters "BO" carved on it which probably points at the north (the letters "BO" should be an acronym for "BOΡΕΙΑ" which means "north"). the others sides of it are blank. In my opinion, it helped old corfiots to find their way to the north of the island before getting lost in the maze of the Corfu Town streets.

I really hope with the forthcoming widening of the road, this milestone will not be removed and get placed somewhere else.

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Κέρκυρα, 07.03.2010
13:16
"Metal Ritual I" @ Ampelonas Triklino, 06/03/2010
» John's Corfu Blog

Yesterday there was a notable heavy metal mini-festival at Ampelonas Triklino. Five greek bands played live (two of them, Stalkers and Psycorepaths are corfiot bands) and the headliners of the event was the athenian black metal group Aherusia with its distinctive fusion of cretan lyra sounds and metal. Gigs like this are very important for our island, because it is an alternative option for a night out and give the chance to enjoy some live music which is rare in Corfu.
I shot three videos but unluckily the sound is very bad because there were shot with a mobile phone.
Whitenoiz on stage:

Psycorepaths:

Aherusia, the headliners of the festival:

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Κέρκυρα, 01.03.2010
14:39
Some pics from the National Geographic Magazine - July 1973
» John's Corfu Blog

I scanned those documentary pictures from the National Geographic Magazine (2002 greek reprint of an article of the July 1973 american NGM issue). That article was dedicated to the Ionian islands and presented Corfu as a beautiful, then unspoiled paradise with quality tourism and preserved traditions of the past. Let's see what the caption under each photograph said:

" Being a bright lighthouse for seamen, Corfu welcomes them with a seaside park beside the old houses which the time have left its marks on them."

" The passers-by dominate the Nikoforou Theotoki street with its characteristic vaulted buildings "

"By day a museum but by night a casino, Achilleion Palace was built by Elisavet, empress of Austria as a resort from the austere typicallity of the royal court."

"The shops in Corfu trade jewels, sugared fruits and copies of ancient finds. Handmade blouses and skirts cost between 10 and 20 dollars."

"The maze of houses in Corfu Town centre reaches the top of the hill. There, the venetian fortress stood the repeated assaults of the Othoman. The Corfiots believe that Saint Spyridon (their patron saint) saved them from the Turks. His relics are kept in the church at the left."

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Κέρκυρα, 28.02.2010
12:16
Paleokastritsa under the February sun
» John's Corfu Blog

The weather is getting better day by day in our beautiful island. Nature has already started to blossom, temperature is on the rise and sun comes out more often than he used to some days before. So, I grabbed the chance to take some photographs in Paleokastritsa, a place so famous about its natural beauty and a classic destination for Corfiots who want to have their walk.

Suddenly, some grey clouds appeared in the sky and soon after the blue sky turned into a more winterly one. Corfu's sky can change mood so rapidly I guess!

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Κέρκυρα, 26.02.2010
16:29
Wind Bands playing at the Santa Theodora litany (21/02/2010)
» John's Corfu Blog

The Feast is kept in memory of the final defeat of Iconoclasm and the restoration of the icons to the churches. The corpse of Santa Theodora is kept in the Mitropolis church and thus, as she was the leader of the protest against Iconoclasm, Corfiots organize this procession in order to commemorate that important event.

In the litany, as always, take part the major wind bands of the island. Below are some short videos taken by a friend:

Filarmonic Society "Mantzaros" (Est. 1890):

Filarmonic Society "Omonoia" (Gastouri) (Est. 1898)

Filarmonic Society "Kapodistrias" (Est. 1980)

All the videos above had been uploaded by the user kantonis1990 .

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Κέρκυρα, 19.02.2010
14:07
Corfu in detail 3: A "bay-window" in Kampielo
» John's Corfu Blog

I always loved those bay windows which are so dominant in Victorian architecture. They are also prominent in some old buildings in Constantinoupolis or in some Macedonian and Ipirotic towns (Old building in Veroia, Macedonia). In fact, bay-windowed buildings are hard to find in Corfu, mainly because they are not a part of venetian architecture nor the Neoclassical one. The latter was the prominent architectural style in Greece during the 19th - early 20th centuries.
So, by luck, I encountered this building in Kampielo, the oldest part of Corfu Town. It bears only one bay window, a detail which makes this edifice distinctive from its neighbours.

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Κέρκυρα, 16.02.2010
12:35
Corfu Soundtrack by corfuland.gr
» John's Corfu Blog

A really interesting video by Corfuland. Beaches, landscapes, sunsets and scenes from Corfu town in fast forward. Some of the places included in this video: Old Fortress, Liston, Corfu old town, Vlacherena church. Please watch and rate.

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Κέρκυρα, 15.02.2010
13:21
Snow in mount Pantokrator!
» John's Corfu Blog

Most people say that it never snows in Corfu...Well, that's not true! It actually snows almost every year up in the tallest mountain of our island, Mount Pantokrator (910m tall). Usually the snow is not that thick to block a road but it's adequate for making your own snowman!

Below is a video I just found in Youtube, uploaded by the user Corfiot30, shot just yesterday:

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Κέρκυρα, 10.02.2010
15:55
Handel "Water Music" by English Concerto on the river Thames
» John's Corfu Blog

This 19-minute long video is taken from a BBC documentary about the ambitious attempt of a team of historical experts to revive the 1717 premiere of Handel’s Water Music on the Thames. The result is the second-ever performance on the river, filmed in costume on a regal-style period barge against the backdrop of the present-day Thames from Whitehall to Chelsea. Includes performances by The English Concert of favourite movements from the F major and D major Suites.

Route followed: Westminster bridge upriver Thames to Chelsea bridge, London

NOTE: IF YOU LIKED THIS, I SUGGEST YOU BUYING THE WHOLE DVD AVAILABE FROM AMAZON.CO.UK. IT HAS THE WHOLE DOCUMENTARY, NARRATED BY THE FAMOUS LONDON BIOGRAPHER PETER ACKROYD

Amazon.co.uk link: www.amazon.co.uk/Handel-Water-Music-DVD/dp/B000BA8ED4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1265808584&sr=8-1

Copyright: BBC, 2003

Handel "Water Music" by English Concerto on the river Thames
από johnt_gr

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Κέρκυρα, 07.02.2010
21:47
Corfu in detail 2: Carved angels on a neoclassical building
» John's Corfu Blog

Last Tuesday, I posted some photos of some carved faces on a building in Alexandras avenue. The next edifice I discovered that features such details is a neoclassical building in Mantzarou street, opposite the Perfecture offices. It really stands out among the neighbouring ungly apartment blocks and it's the home of some doctor and lawyer offices.

A latticework above the central door bears the date 1903, which I suspect is the year that the building was built. Also, right under the date, the acronym "AA" could be seen. Does anyone of you know what it stands out for?

The small angel faces with wings could only be seen right under the windows of the first floor. Unfortunately, the first one from the left is gone.

Generally speaking, the building is not in a bad condition but a facelift could have been done. It is about time some important old buildings be listed in order to preserve them from dilapidation?

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Κέρκυρα, 05.02.2010
17:39
Enjoying the view from Anemomylos, one cold but sunny February day...
» John's Corfu Blog

Today, hopefully, was another sunny but a bit cold day in our beloved island. The northern wind of the last few days, resulted in a clear atmosphere, which is perfect for taking quality photographs. Anemomylos is a good point where someneone can have unobstructed views towards the old fortress, the city and the mountains in mainland Greece and Albania.

General views of the Old Fortress

The snowcapped mountains of the mainland

Esplanade, Saint Spyridon campanile and Kapodistriou street buildings (including the Ionian Academy and Cavallieri Hotel buildings), as seen from Anemomylos.

Almost same zoomed view, but now you can notice the southern side of the Liston buildings. Notice Mount Pantokrator with its clouded top!

Focusing on the spot where Alexandras avenue meets the bay (Douglas column). Two communication antenna towers could be seen, the big O.T.E. one and the smaller on the top of Avrami hill.

A sparrow enjoying the view, as I did!

The western of the two hills of the Old Fortress with its distictive cross and lighthouse on the top.

Zoomed view towards the Esplanade again.

The 'Corfu Palace Hotel' dominates the view towards the northern end of Garitsa bay.

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Κέρκυρα, 02.02.2010
20:40
Corfu in detail: Carved faces above a window
» John's Corfu Blog

Alexandras Avenue was the first and unique boulevard-like avenue in Corfu town. It was an offspring of the British occupation, a part of the first planned suburb, Neopoli (the area is bordered by what is now called Rizospaston Voulefton, Marasli, Dimokratias and Vraila streets), an area characterized by straight avenues and streets. This area attracted the upper classes, as it was then away from the hustle and bustle of the old walled town and its gardens and trees provided clean air. A number of grand houses erected, some of them still survive (I'm intenting to cover them in the future). One of them is the apartment building below.

What makes that building unique are those beautiful carved faces above the windows of the first floor. It seems that buildings like that, so carefully and tastefully designed, are not built anymore.

Have you ever noticed that detail yourself? Which mythical icons do they represent?

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Κέρκυρα, 31.01.2010
13:39
Live Corfu webcam at Kanalia
» John's Corfu Blog

Are you wondering how the weather is like in Corfu at the moment? A brand new cam, hosted by CorfuWeather is online, bringing you fresh images of how Corfu's sky is like, refreshing every 10 seconds. This webcam is situated in Kanalia, a suburb about 3 kilometres south of Corfu Town. As you can see, it has a panoramic view towards the north and mount Pantokrator, the tallest mountain in the island.
Visit the cam at:http://www.corfuweather.gr/cam/index.html

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Κέρκυρα, 28.01.2010
23:51
My little poem about Lisbon
» John's Corfu Blog

"Ó Lisboa, cidade das sete colinas, com os eléctricos que ascendem as suas ruas,
dos fados os que se podem ouvir dentro das suas casas,
Ó Lisboa, cidade dos meus desejos!"

English translation
"Oh Lisbon, city of seven hills,
with the trams which ascend your streets,
of fados that could be heard inside of your houses,
Oh Lisbon, city of my desires!"

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Κέρκυρα, 24.01.2010
12:50
Haydn Concerto for piano and orchestra in F major - 3rd mov. by the Orchestra of Ionian University
» John's Corfu Blog

Very elegant playing, congratulations to the students and the teachers of our University for this excellent concert they gave yesterday.

Solist: Vasiliki DrigogiaDirection: Paulos Pappas

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Κέρκυρα, 20.01.2010
15:09
January in Alikes beach
» John's Corfu Blog

Few images I shot last Sunday with the snow capped Ipirus mountains in the background.

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Κέρκυρα, 17.01.2010
18:18
Amazing panoramic view from Viros
» John's Corfu Blog

A bit blurry and fuzzy, but you can have a glimpse of the view you can get from up there. I have never been there before, the view is marvellous - you can clearly see Corfu Town, the old fortress, Kanoni, the airport and the southern environs of the town.

I should really come back to take photos when the light and visibility will be better than it was today!

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Κέρκυρα, 15.01.2010
13:26
Bike paths or sidewalks?
» John's Corfu Blog

Last year, the announcement of the construction of paths dedicated to bicycles was met with happiness by the majority of bike lovers. The first network of bike paths was constructed in the Garitsa and Anemomylos bayside parks. These are two green spaces which are in urgent need for redevelopment because both have been left to deteriorate.

The bike paths are a part of the general redevelopment plan for Garitsa and Anemomylos parks. In my opinion, the two-lane path is narrow, thus there is a great risk for an bike accident. Apart for that, pedestrians tend to use this fresh and clean path instead of the dirty and disrepaired nearby sidewalk which runs the parks in length, as the bike paths do as well.

Below there are some images I took, so you can judge yourself:

What should be done? The sidelwalk should be repaired and ban pedestrians from using the bike lane. Also, the width of the paths should be increased to meet the security standards.
After all, we all should love and use the bike lanes with respect. Those beautiful bayside parks are important in improving the quality of life in our town.

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Κέρκυρα, 11.01.2010
13:48
Garitsa's disaster - Part 2
» John's Corfu Blog

Only a year has passed away since the first disaster occured in Garitsa's seaside promenade. Strong southerneastern winds resulted in creating two new holes - one near Corfu Palace hotel (maybe it is one of the holes of December 2008) and a second one at Anemomylos.
The first one is already covered but somebody still can't walk through though.

It seems strange to me that there is a hole in Anemomylos, as that side is protected from southern winds.

Let's all hope this is the last time that this happens and the authorities will start to visualise a plan to renew and protect Garitsa's promenade from future disasters.

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Κέρκυρα, 02.01.2010
14:32
Jerome Isma-Ae @ Au Bar, Corfu - 01.01.10
» John's Corfu Blog

It was a great event - awesome music, Jerome played a set of his skillfull remixes and productions, he definately justified his fame!

Check out the videos!

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Κέρκυρα, 01.01.2010
12:37
Happy New Year 2010!
» John's Corfu Blog

My deepest wishes for the New Year to all the fans of this blog - may 2010 bring you prosperity, good health, joy and make your wishes and desires come true!
This is the first post not only for the new year, but for the new decade. So we also celebrate the dawn of another decade for which we all hope it will be better than the previous one.

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Κέρκυρα, 30.12.2009
13:31
Lemonia square: Same old story again...
» John's Corfu Blog

Some things in this island does not seem to change. The narrow-mindness, stupidity and stubborness of some local people are non-descript. It is unbelievable that somebody cut again the lemon trees which started to grow again on this beautiful spacious square of the old town.

This is how the Lemonia square looked today:
What is left now...

What could be done to prevent actions like this in the future? One proposal is to protect the trees by encircle them with special metal latticework, called "tree guards" which will protect them efficiently from damage. This practice is quite common in several countries in Europe. (Tree guards in Sweden).
Two renders of how it could be done in our case, made by a friend:

In my opinion, what matters most is to prevent such activities from happening again and educate people to respect their urban enviroment, which is an important factor for our culture.

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Κέρκυρα, 27.12.2009
13:43
Hiking at a remote road, Nissaki Corfu - Christmas 2009
» John's Corfu Blog

A very peaceful place on a hill full of olive trees and other greenery. A "haunted" storage house, recently inhabited maybe by an immigrant or a hermit adds a touch of mystery in my walk. A complex with villas and pool revealed at the end of this part, uninhabited at this time of the year.

The second part of my tour - trying to find my way out of the villas and heading downhill towards the place where a crazy man commited suicide. This place was haunted by his ghost, someone could hear some strange sounds until a priest was called to help the neighbours get rid of the apparition. Finally, I reached my home, after walking almost a kilometre of unspoilted nature.

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Κέρκυρα, 26.12.2009
13:49
A gloomy Christmas day at my village, Nissaki
» John's Corfu Blog

Yesterday it was Christmas day. As many of other families, we went to celebrate at my village Nissaki. Nissaki is 21 km north of Corfu Town. It's hilly and have some nice small pebbly beaches which are popular to well-to-do tourists from UK and Germany. It is full of apartments catering with tourists and it's not so dense like other more traditional villages in the island. Our apartments are on a hill almost downhill from Pantokratoras peak. We get breathtaking views from up there - the southern tip of Albania could be seen, the shoreline of Thesprotia, Corfu Town with its fortresses and on a clear day, Paxos island could be spotted as well. Nissaki is dotted with hundreds of olive trees adding a deep silver green shade to the place.

If you are interested in renting our apartments next summer, just visit our website and see the prices, the villas' facilities and some additional information: Villa Jacaranda and Villa Nicoleta.

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Κέρκυρα, 23.12.2009
17:54
Merry Christmas everyone!
» John's Corfu Blog

"John's Corfu World"wish you Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2010!

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Κέρκυρα, 21.12.2009
15:15
Old Port's Marina: The appalling situation goes on...
» John's Corfu Blog

A neverending nightmare... It has been almost a year since my last post about the marina under construction at the Old Port and little has changed. I think now the place looks even more horrible than ever. Construction is progressing very slowly, giving me the impression that the marina will never be completed and that I should compromise with the place's current look.

I really wonder what and who is to blame for that mess. The crisis? The unwillingness of the local authorities? Do they not understand that this part of our town is a disgrace and gives tourists a bad impression?

This is how the new marina will look, if completed: not bad, given that it is not going to be huge and will serve only yachts.

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Κέρκυρα, 18.12.2009
21:05
Christmas in Corfu: How central streets look under Xmas Lights
» John's Corfu Blog

Like every Christmas time and from the St. Spyridon's Day (12 Dec) to St. John's Day (07 Jan), our town is decorated with million of light bulbs. The spectacle of a sea of thousand stars hanging above our heads makes a festive mood every night.

I took some pictures tonight, just to give those away from Corfu, how it looks like:

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Κέρκυρα, 12.12.2009
14:16
Happy Saint Spyridon's day!
» John's Corfu Blog

The 12th of December is the day when our patron saint, Saint Spyridon is being commemorated. In that day many people named Spyros and Spyridoula celebrate their nameday and believe me, they are not few! A celebrational service is held in Saint Spyridon church in Corfu Town, attended by a lot of people.

But let me show you a short biography of our saint, taken from Wikipedia:

"Spyridon of Trimythous the Wonderworker (Greek: Σπυρίδων ca. 270-348) was a 4th centurybishop who was present at the First Ecumenical Council. He is also commonly referred to in Corfu as Keeper of the City (Greek: ο πολιούχος), since he is also the patron saint of that island (this is where his relics are located and venerated). He is commemorated by the church on December 12. Spyridon was born in the village of Ashia (askia - "without shade"), Cyprus (270 AD) and died in Trimythous, Cyprus (348 AD). He was a peasant farmer and shepherd and had no education. Spyridon was married and had a daughter, Irene. After his wife died, he and his daughter both entered into monasticism. He later became the Bishop of Trimythous (during the reign of Constantine the Great) and continued in piety for which he was greatly known. When the Arabs took Cyprus, Spyridon's body was disinterred and taken to Constantinople. The relics were found to be incorrupt, and contained a sprig of basil, the "royal plant," both of which were taken as a sign of divine confirmation of his sanctity.When, in 1453, Constantinople fell to the Turks, Spyridon's relics were removed again; this time, to the island of Corfu by a Corfiote monk called Kalohairetis (Καλοχαιρέτης), where they remain to this day.The relics are taken in procession every Palm Sunday and on other special occasions, for veneration by the faithful. All Philharmonics of Corfu, including the Philharmonic Society of Corfu take part in these ceremonial events. The relic of his right hand is now located in Rome.Spyridon is the patron saint of potters (from the purported miracle of the potsherd) and the island of Corfu where he is called: "Αγιος Σπυρίδων ο πολιούχος", "Saint Spyridon, the Keeper of the City" for the miracle of expelling the plague (πανώλη) from the island.It is believed by the faithful that the plague, on its way out of the island, scratched one of the fortification stones of the old citadel (Palaio Frourio) to indicate its fury for being expelled. This scratch is shown to visitors to this day.Icon showing Saint Spyridon (center, front) silencing Arius (right, with hands over his mouth) during the First Ecumenical Council of Nicea in 325.St. Spyridon is also believed to have saved the island at the second great siege of Corfu which took place in 1716. At that time the Turkish army and naval force led by the great Sultan Achmet III appeared in Butrinto opposite Corfu.On July 8 the Turkish fleet carrying 33,000 men sailed to Corfu from Butrinto and established a beachhead in Ipsos. The same day the Venetian fleet encountered the Turkish fleet off the channel of Corfu and defeated it in the ensuing naval battle. On July 19 the Turkish army reached the hills of the town and laid siege to the city. After repeated failed attempts and heavy fighting, the Turks were forced to raise the siege which had lasted 22 days.There were also rumours spreading among the Turks that some of their soldiers saw St. Spyridon as a monk threatening them with a lit torch and that helped increase their panic. This victory over the Turks, therefore, was attributed not only to the leadership of Count Schulenburg who commanded the stubborn defence of the island against the Turks but also to the miraculous intervention of St. Spyridon.After the victorious outcome of the battle, Venice honoured Schulenburg and the Corfiotes for successfully defending the island. The great composer Vivaldi was commissioned to write an opera, Juditha triumphans, in celebration of the victory.Recognizing St. Spyridon's role in the defence of the island, Venice legislated the annual "Litany of St. Spyridon" on August 11 as a commemoration of the event. His feast day is celebrated in the East on the Saturday before Great Lent (known as "Cheesefare Saturday") and December 12. For those Eastern Churches which follow the traditional Julian Calendar, December 12 falls on December 25 of the modern Gregorian Calendar. In the West he is commemorated on December 14.St. Spyridon is also the patron saint of the Tolstoy family. Andrei Tolstoy (fl. 15th century) chose St. Spyridon as the family's saint and he remains so in both branches to this day. The Grand Prince of Muscovy Basil II (1425-1462) apparently gave a gold cross containing relics of the saint to Andrei. This reliquary survives to this day and is held by the senior member of the Tolstoy family, now Nikolai Tolstoy."
A three-day long worship is held from December 11 to December 13. People from all over Corfu and Greece come to the Saint Spyridon church to pray.
Our patron saint is without doubt very significant for all Corfiots. He has helped a lot of sick people and those in need of help, courage or forgiveness. We are so lucky that we have Him!

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Κέρκυρα, 09.12.2009
19:35
Visiting the neglected Avramiou hill...
» John's Corfu Blog

Corfu Town is hilly. Built on and between several hills, it is similar to Rome or Constantinopolis in that respect. Two of its great fortresses are on the top of hills, the Old one is on the homonymous peninsula and the New one on the top of Saint Mark hill. Besides those, smaller fortresses were built by the Venetians to stregthen and help the defence line provided by the two larger forts: One of them was the Avrami fort, on the top of Avrami hill. It was built after the Turkish invasion of 1716 on the site of then long gone enormous and luxurious "Avrami Villa" which was destroyed by the Turks in 1537. It consisted of many facilities, like storage buildings, bastions, lookouts and a system of underground tunnels made possible for soldiers to communicate with Salvador fortress (on the site where "Dasaki" and the Prison now stand - I'll cover those in the future) and San Rocco fortress. From the Avrami fort, someone could control the surrounding area up to Potamos and Kefalomantouko. The fate of this military facility, like many others, was unfortunate. Before the British left the island, they blew up the fort. The power of the explosion was so big that material exploded away and residences around it suffered minor damage. Now, little evidence can be found of its existence. The place is now forgotten in its secludity like many other green oases in our town. I decided to walk up the hill and get some shots.

The view from the middle of my way to the top was special; lots of landmarks could be seen, like the Platitera campanile, the airport's runway, the new port, Koulines hill, the twin TV and Radio antennas near Kanalia and Kanoni peninsula.

It was also possible - although somewhat limited due to the greenery- to see the Sarocco, Tennis and Leoforos Alexandras area.

Finally, after ascending all the steep road, I made it to the top. The first thing I noticed was the antenna park, which is a kind of a landmark because it's visible from many parts of town.

Looking at the opposite direction, neglet was obvious everywhere. The site of the once glorious fort is now covered with litter and apart from that, it is full of used condoms and evidence of drug use. Where are the authorities? Are they informed about those illegal activities happening - mostly during the night- on the top of the hill?

I forgot to mention in my brief history of the place that in late 19th century, a house for the elder was built on the top. Unfortunately, it is vacant and it looks now more like a ghost. I was lucky that the gate leading to the site was open.

On the left stands a small building. It might was a facility for the elder's house or a kind of administrative building. It was derelict as well.

The main building stands on the right, delapidated and ready to fall apart.

Suddenly, I noticed an interesting detail on the left side of the edifice: A beautifully carved marble side door with some Venetian elements!

I spent some time looking at the view spreading beyond me. The New Fortess, the campanile of Saint Spyridon church, Vido island even the top of the Old Fortress behind the walls of the New one could be seen.

As time passed, I decided to make my way downhill taking another few shot of the view towards Mantouki and Kogevina hill.

It is really depressing that a place gifted with spendid view, an urban oasis is now a stronghold of drug addicts. It would have been turned into a place of entertainment and recreation - an alternative option to Spianada. I really hope those who have the power, realise its potential and Avrami hill will again become a landmark.

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Κέρκυρα, 01.12.2009
22:49
At last some rain after two weeks of sunshine!
» John's Corfu Blog

A strong thunderstorm is going on right now in Corfu, after several days of unusual sunny and warm weather! Below is a short video I shot in which you can see how stormy it is right here youreself!

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Κέρκυρα, 28.11.2009
13:50
John Graham @ Au Bar, Corfu 27/11/2009
» John's Corfu Blog

Hailing from California, John Graham (also known as "Quivver") is a legend among those who really love what is called Progressive house music.

Maybe that was why the club was far from being full yesterday, the event attracted mostly progressive house music lovers. That's a pity because I think Graham deserved a bigger audience. Moreover, a more extensive promotion of the event should have been done.

If you were among those who didn't know about the event, don't worry! The good news is that a mega star dj, Jerome Isma-ae is going to rock the decks of Au Bar with the dawn of new year!!

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Κέρκυρα, 26.11.2009
18:34
Corfu from the top of the Old Fortress
» John's Corfu Blog

Taken in 24/11/2009 with my Nokia N79 5mp camera.

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Κέρκυρα, 16.11.2009
12:54
Corfu mourns the loss of a great musician
» John's Corfu Blog

Last Saturday ,at the age of 80 years, died the distinguished corfiot musician and conductor, for many years, of "Mantzaros", Stefanos Dolianitis.
He was born in Corfu in 1929. He was the conductor of the band (husband of Nena Dolianitis and father of Lina and Spyros Dolianitis). He was an offspring of the Philharmonic Society Mantzaros, in which joined in 1946 (his first teacher was Christos Dapergolas).
There he trained in theoretical and practical music (clarinetto and saxofono). He continued his studies at the Athens Conservatory, at the class of the great Corfiot teacher Spyros Lazaros. In 1951, he returned to Corfu and continued his studies with Theodoros Kavadias and Alexandros Grek (theory and piano). In 1958 he attended the National Conservatory, graduating in 1960 with a degree in direction and band instrumentation (he was a student of M. Kalomiris). Since then he `d been conductor and Director of Schools of Philarminic Band " Mantzaros "in which previously had been a vice conductor.
At the same time he composed music for the play of Theodoros Zamanis "` One Corfiot hustler" and wrote the music of well-known songs as "Na ksanartheis" ," Korfiatopoula, etc. He remained the director of "Mantzaros" for over 35 years and directed the entire "classic" repertoire for band, having himself transcribed numerous tracks from the international and lyrical symphonic repertoire, but also from that of the quality "light music". Also he composed marches and marchias.
In 1974, in Corfu, he created the first "student band" (mpantina) and in 1986 he conducted the Philharmonic in Pleven, Bulgaria, with the distinguished soloist of trumpet, Socrates Anthis.
Stefanos Dolianitis was also commendable because, despite the tempting artistic proposals that occasionally received from various music organizations outside Corfu, he did not give in and remained in his home as a conscious and inspired servant of the unique music tradition of the island of culture, Corfu. The funeral will be held today at 3 pm at the first cemetery in Garitsa. May he rest in peace!

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Κέρκυρα, 05.11.2009
13:57
Two years of 'John's Corfu World'!!
» John's Corfu Blog

My blog was created at November 5th of 2007 and my intention was to find a place to post my ideas, photographs, experiences and tours of Corfu. I hope you still enjoy this page and I promise that I will try to make this blog even more interesting and appreciable by all Corfu fans around the world.

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Κέρκυρα, 03.11.2009
19:23
A video dedicated to the Old Municipal theatre of Corfu
» John's Corfu Blog

I just found that amazing video displaying images of the now gone Old Municipal theatre, which stood at the same site where the monstrous New Mucipal Theatre built in late 1970s. The background music is taken from "Lohengrin" of R. Wagner, which was the first opera performed at the theatre.

According to Wikipedia:

"The decision to create a new Municipal Theater, was taken in 1885, Mayor George Theotokis. Construction began in 1893, Mayor Michael Theotokis. Given the high cost of the project was completed in 1902 to plans by the Italian architect Conrado Pergolesi, who used the building as a model of "La Scala". The theater had a height of 39 meters and was the entrance portico, which adorned the facade of columns 6 Tuscan style. Externally, the upper floor 4 columns adorned with Corinthian capitals and pediment. In the middle of the pediment was relief escutcheon of Corfu, surrounded by laurel wreath, and films. The entrance to the theater was decorated with huge purple columns and around the high walls were decorated with portraits of great musicians, who had painted fine Italian painters.
The Public Theater had 64 galleries in three rows and a loft. Each gallery was luxurious, private living room had a bathroom, small room with mirrors and precious curtain and exclusively own illumination gas. The theater was luxurious square, richly decorated with deep purple plush armchairs, which at the end of the square was smaller.
The Municipal Theater of Corfu, considered one of the best in Europe. The acoustics were incomparable by any technical terms and was able to correctly render the slightest nuance of sound. The estimated capacity of about a thousand seats, and had a large foyer, the ceilings decorated with beautiful wall-paintings of Italian painters depicting Greek ancient gods and various musical representations. Famous have remained the dances given in the foyer.
The opening performances of the Municipal Theater of Corfu were held on December 7, 1902 in "Lohengrin" of Wagner. In one of its performances attended by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany at the time of visiting the "Achillion '.
The Public Theater gold cost one million pounds, an enormous amount of time, forcing the municipality to enter into Corfu sinking loan, the final repayment of which would be in 1941. Unfortunately, the Municipal Theater was lost in the night of 13 to 14 September 1943, arson of the dreadful night of Corfu town from the Germans.
The only thing that survived was the curtain, which by chance was not at the Public Theater that night.
Unfortunately the post-war period the building was damaged by the Corfiot architect John Kollas and civil engineers George Linardos and Renos Paipetis, that there is no architectural and historical value. The opinion was announced to the City Council of Corfu, with Mayor then Stamatis Desyllas, which is meeting on March 31, 1952, unanimously decided to demolish the Municipal Theater. The theater was demolished, despite the strong protests of many of Corfu, who arrived at the courtroom. Several years later built in place of another, but the old theater is never faded from the heart of Corfiots. This is evidenced by the dozens of photos, which are hung everywhere from private offices to public buildings, longing for his lost glory."
Corfiots will never forget that fine piece of architecture which embellished their island...

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Κέρκυρα, 02.11.2009
13:38
(Illegal) Immigrants blues: Arabic graffiti on a derelict factory
» John's Corfu Blog

The proof that derelict factories in the Mandouki area house poor immigrants from distant asian countries such as Afganistan, Pakistan and Kurdistan.

Does anyone of you can translate those for us? It would be interesting to inform me in what language is this graffiti written and what does it say. So any friends of this blog who can read those, please drop me a line.

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Κέρκυρα, 30.10.2009
15:28
Corfu 1972: a short film
» John's Corfu Blog

I found that at YouTube, a short film shot in 1972 showing the island as it was 37 years before.

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Κέρκυρα, 25.10.2009
17:36
Lazaretto island: A small islet full of history
» John's Corfu Blog

Lazaretto (also known as "Agios Dimitrios") is small island one mile away from the coast of Corfu, not far from the bigger islet of Vidos. It covers an area of 17.5 acres (71,000 m2) and it is uninhabited.

Lazaretto from space:

Today, I had the chance to visit Lazaretto, participating in the memorial service given to the victims of the Greek National Resistance movement. We set off with a ferry from the New Port, sailing slowly to the islet 2 kilometres away. Weather was partly cloudy but not cold at all. Approaching our destination, the island's flora appeared: pine trees, fir trees and occasionally some palm trees dominated the islet.

A narrow ascending path led us to the centre of the island where the ruins of Agios Dimitrios church and another two-storied building served as headquarters for the Italian army. There is also a small cemetery for those who where condemned to death. But let's dig briefly into the history of the island.

Lazaretto was named by the Venetians after the leprosarium which operated there. Venetians leprosariums were named "Lazzaretti" after Lazzaretto Vecchio island in Venice, which housed the first venetian leprosarium. Every ship which had Corfu as its destination, was forced to spend forty days in Lazaretto before entering Corfu's port passing through the process of disinfecting postal items, usually by fumigation. There was also a house for the leper people. In 1798, during the French occupation, the Russo-Turkish fleet ran it as a military hospital. During the British occupation, it was used again as a leprosarium. After the Enosis of 1864, it was used occasionally. During World War II, the Axis established a concentration camp for the prisoners of the Greek National Resistance movement. The wall against which those condemned to death were shot still stands opposite the Agios Dimitrios church.

Manolis Glezos, the famous left wing politician, giving a speech:

Lazaretto, recently, is under renovation. The church is being restored to its former glory and the two story building will be a museum dedicated to the National Resistance. When these works will come to an end, we hope that special place will draw visitors more often and its history will be more appreciated by the younger generations.

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Κέρκυρα, 20.10.2009
15:04
Some really old and rare photographs
» John's Corfu Blog

Liston in early 1900s

Walking in Garitsa, early 1900s

The "Puli tis Mparoutis" gate in Spilia district, now demolished

Panoramic view of Garitsa, 1950s

The factory behind the old Municipal Theatre

The demolished old apartment block in Agias Sofias street

The traditional "karo" or "lisa", used by old time Corfiots as a mean of transport

The bombarded Anunziata monastery, right after the Second World War

Porta Reala and Eugeniou Voulgareos street in late 19th century

Mantouki in early 20th century

The north side of Old Fortress from the Faliraki area - The only building which survives is the last on at the right.

Pinia with "Piniadoroi" - early 20th century

All photos taken by me from the notable book "Istoria tis Kerkyras" by Spyros Katsaros.

If you liked the photos above, there is a group in Facebook dedicated in old Corfu photos.

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Κέρκυρα, 11.10.2009
21:29
Dance show @ "Poco Loco" TexMex, Corfu (10.10.09)
» John's Corfu Blog

They were really amazing, dressed in those funky latin outfits and entertain us while tasting burritos!

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Κέρκυρα, 08.10.2009
15:01
Ruins of an old church in Porta Remunda district in Old Corfu Town
» John's Corfu Blog

On a side street (Foka street) at Porta Remunda, I discovered a few months ago a ruined old church. It seems very old and traditional, as the architecture and the uncovered spots of brickwork revealed as a result of the physical deterioration caused by time.

As I don't know any details of this building, I would like to ask my fellow blog followers to post a comment if they know anything about that church. Your information will be used as an updater to this post

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Κέρκυρα, 29.09.2009
23:35
Corfu in 1962: Check out the videos
» John's Corfu Blog

I found three videos that I want to share with you. All those three are very interesting as they present Corfu at early 60s, when tourism in the island was in its early stages but it didn't lack the quality.
Click on the links below, taken from the British Pathe website:
Corfiot Dancers at Kastelo, Dassia (1962)
Club Mediterannee, Dassia (1962)
Life in the village (1962)
I hope you enjoyed them and make you compare that distant era with today - is tourism better now than 50 years before? Is it more affordable for more and more tourists than yesterdays? Is Corfu as well preserved as in the 60s? If not, why and what are the reasons for that decay?

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Κέρκυρα, 28.09.2009
13:10
Vandalism at Esplanade's historic bandstand...
» John's Corfu Blog

People who passed through Esplanade last Saturday morning sadly witnessed the vandalism of the bandstand's lattice-work. That was the last incident of Esplanade's vandalism, after the grafitties on the monument of Eptanisos and on the paved areas of the square. What is considered one of the most well-known sights of our island, is being vandalised often by a bunch of spoilt teenagers who apparently haven't given the proper education of respecting the history of their homeland.

*Photos taken from "Maties stin Kerkira" blog.

What should be done, in my opinion, is to patrol the area more intensively and impose a "zero tolerance" policy towards those vandals who is doing the best they can to make Corfu look unattractive and "third world" in those difficult times we are getting through.

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Κέρκυρα, 24.09.2009
13:33
Derelict houses and side streets of Ioannou Theotoki street (former Avramiou street)
» John's Corfu Blog

The area which surrounds Ioanni Theotoki street and connects Sarocco square with the New Port is known is colloquially known as "Pallada". Pallada was an old oil factory on the site where the bus station is now situated. Along I. Theotoki street, there were some houses which were built by immigrants from Asia Minor in the 1920s. The area was also known as "Prosfigika", a name which was given to many places in Greece reserved for the Asia Minor greek immigrants. There were many of them in the area, but now most of them disappeared and new 1950s- 1960s apartment blocks were built.

I strolled the small lane called "Ekti parodos Ioannou Theotoki", next to the Ionian University building. That small lane used to be full of those. Now, only a couple of them still stand.

Above, someone can see the looming presence of the also unhappily derelict old building of the Elderly Home, a beautiful building on the top of Avramiou hill. I really hope this edifice will soon be renovated and used as a museum or as recreational area.

Walking across Ioanni Theotoki street, there is an empty piece of land which serves as a parking. At the end of this place, there is a small hill on which another derelict building stands. It is in a really bad condition, as you can see from the picture below.

Standing on the top of this low hill, a part of new port and the bus station is visible and looking to the other side, the Ionian University building can be seen.

There is also a set of stairs lead to the top of Markora street. Climbing up these stairs, you can get a panoramic view of Avramiou area.

Finally, after ascending the stairs and looking towards the New Fortress, the new market under construction and the nearby temporary market are under our feet.

Also the symbol of the old Venetian republic, the winged lion holding a book is proudly standing on the walls of the New Fortress, witnessing the prior status of Corfu as a Venetian stronghold at the entrance of Adriatic sea.

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Κέρκυρα, 31.08.2009
23:40
Sarocco square panorama
» John's Corfu Blog

I found this somewhere in the internet.

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Κέρκυρα, 23.08.2009
20:33
DJ Baphomet (a.k.a Noiseevoluter) @ Edem beach Nightclub, 22/08/09
» John's Corfu Blog

Playing Plastikman's "Spastik"

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Κέρκυρα, 13.08.2009
16:14
Why so many Corfu beaches are so dirty this summer?
» John's Corfu Blog

Kardaki beach today (13/08/2009)...

No comment!

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Κέρκυρα, 28.07.2009
16:29
Have a look at Corfuland's very first webcam!
» John's Corfu Blog

Corfuland has installed a webcamera at Cafe Floisvos in Kanoni area. Being in a trial period, the gives you a good view of Vlaherna chapel, which is the most famous landmark of Corfu. The image refreshes every few seconds. To log in, enter "corfuland" as the username and the password.

To view the cam just click HERE

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Κέρκυρα, 26.07.2009
21:14
Issos beach: An african place in Corfu
» John's Corfu Blog

Issos beach is the only place in our island where you can swim by giant and vast sand dunes, giving you the feel that you are somewhere in Africa. The lack of extensive touristic development (which is so present in other corfiot beaches) results in crystal clear waters and in an unspoilt enviroment. The northern side of the beach is a nudist beach, while the central and the southern part is more popular and busy. In the southern tip, the tourist village of Agios Georgios is located, where you can find some restaurants and bars. There is a small harbour too. Also, immediately east of Issos, there is lake Korission with its protected wildlife.

In conclusion, Issos beach offers you a relaxed and quality swimming and sunbathing experience. There are a lot of watersports too. You can also hire a wind surf board or do some kite if there is the appropriate wind.

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Κέρκυρα, 23.07.2009
18:54
The Durrell's "Daffodil Yellow villa" in Kontokali
» John's Corfu Blog

Tourism in Corfu would have been different without the famous G. Durrell's novel "My family and other animals". Gerald Durrell lived during his childhood for a few years with his family in Corfu. He and his elder brother, Lawrence, quickly adored the sheer beauty of then unspoiled by the massive tourism, Corfiot landscape. He begun exploring the local flora and fauna and started connecting with some of the local people.

Durrells lived in many grand houses during their four year long stay in Corfu. One of them was the so called "Daffodil -Yellow villa" in Kontokali. Recently, I decided to go for swimming just outside the villa, which is still inhabited by a rich local family. Its premises are clearly visible from a good distance. It is four storeys tall and the perimetre of the premise is marked by a tall wall. The villa also is surrounded by a small pine forest in which various kinds of birds reside.
The villa has a venetian style. Probably it was a property of a venetian rich landlord who may have owned vast pieces of land around Kontokali in which olive trees have been cultivated(venetian Corfu had a feudal system - like most places in Europe in the Middle Ages and before the French Revolution.

In my opinion, this house is one of the most beautiful and splendid residences still standing in the island. It reminds us that Corfu was a place which many people from different cultures have been living together, enjoying the beauty and the quality that Corfu offered.

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Κέρκυρα, 27.06.2009
18:39
Matisse live @ Spianada, Corfu 21/06/2009
» John's Corfu Blog

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Κέρκυρα, 13.06.2009
19:09
Mirtiotissa beach, the official nudist beach of the island.
» John's Corfu Blog

Mirtiotissa is located on the western coast of the island and is the official beach for the nudists of Corfu. Being hailed as one of the most fine beaches all over the world, the place surely is less developed than nearby cosmopolitan Glyfada. One can only find a restaurant and the Mirtiotissa monastery, from which the beach was named. Waters are usually colder than Glyfada or Kontogialos, because of the currents and the rocks which surround the beach. Access to the beach is a little bit difficult; the road is narrow, winding and pebbly but you are awarded by one of the clearest and most secluded beaches Corfu can offer.

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Κέρκυρα, 11.06.2009
20:14
Agios Gordios (or Ai Gordis): Another "sunset" beach
» John's Corfu Blog

Panorama of Agios Gordios beach:

On the way to the beach; the place has developed into a touristic little town:

A pathway at the beach

Ai Gordis hotel: the biggest establishment in the area

Some random guys playing football at the beach:
The characteristic little rocky island on the south side:

AloBar: the well-known local beach bar.

Having a coffee at AloBar!

Sun has already started setting - time to get home!

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Κέρκυρα, 25.05.2009
23:42
An amazing video from Youtube: Vocapeople
» John's Corfu Blog

An orchestra of human vocals: The Vocapeople! They are amazing, aren't they?

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Κέρκυρα, 17.05.2009
18:14
Flor-de-Lis - Todas As Ruas Do Amor: Eurovision 2009 performance
» John's Corfu Blog

Flor-de-Lis - Todas As Ruas Do Amor: Eurovision 2009 performance (Portugal finally achieved to win the No. 15 position) (16-05-2009)

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Κέρκυρα, 08.05.2009
13:17
Photos of Benitses - the so called "Riviera of Corfu"
» John's Corfu Blog

Benitses marina:

A little tunnel on the road to Lefkimmi:
View from Kaiser's bridge:

Kaiser's bridge:

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Κέρκυρα, 29.04.2009
19:03
Corfu is like a postcard: Paleokastritsa, Bella Vista and Aggelokastro
» John's Corfu Blog

Corfu is really beautiful during springtime. Nature is blossomed and the weather is getting warmer and dryer so it is the perfect time for brief excursions. Last Sunday, me and my friends decided to visit some famous spots of the island on the northwest side: Paleokastritsa, Lakones and Aggelokastro. All these spots are neighbouring. The two former offer you breathtaking and exclusive views of west Corfu and Ionian Sea.

Here is a sample of the photos I took last Sunday:

St. George Pagon panorama:

Rocks in the sea- petrified boats?

Central Corfu and Lazareto island from Aggelokastro:

A rather macabre image: A commemorative plague of a man who commited suicide back in 1993 and the gravity the view gives.

Paleokastritsa from Aggelokastro.

Paleokastritsa again.

Entrance to Aggelokastro:

View of Aggelokastro:

The rather mountainous west coast of Corfu:

A village and Corfu Town at the back - zoomed picture taken from Aggelokastro:

Paleokastritsa from the balcony of Bella Vista in Lakones village:

A more general view of Paleokastritsa from Bella Vista:

Paleo's full of hotels and tourist oriented ventures:

Isn't it lovely?

A fisherman in one of Paleokastritsa's coves.

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Κέρκυρα, 24.04.2009
15:32
Forgotten Corfu: Kyprou Street commemorative post
» John's Corfu Blog

As somebody walking down Kyprou street (Cyprus street)in Garitsa, may his/her eye catch a billingual old street sign post, just across the primary school.

This post has a monumental shape and bear a plague on where somebody can read the following text, written in Greek and English:
"ΟΔΟΣ ΟΥΑΡΔ, ΚΑΤΑΣΚΕΥΑΣΘΕΙΣΑ ΥΠΟ ΤΩΝ ΕΝ ΤΩ ΣΩΦΡΟΝΙΣΤΗΡΙΩ ΔΕΣΜΙΩΝ ΕΝ ΕΤΕΙ ΑΩΝΔ"
"WARD'S ROAD, MADE BY THE PRISONER'S OF THE PENITENTIARY IN THE YEAR 1854"

Unfortunately, this ancient post is vandalized by some mindless and spoilt "anarchic" youths who have drawn an anarchic symbol with a black paint on the monument's plague. But it is, indeed another remnant of the british occupation (1812-1864).

By the time that post was erected, Garitsa was a suburb of Corfu Town (or "borgo" in the local idiom) which was considerably smaller than the present day settlement and was not merged with the capital, as it is today. I reckon that the British called the street "Ward's Road" from the english word "ward", which means "a division of a city, a borough". Garitsa, as a suburb, always was one of the various divisions of Corfu Town (like Mantouki, Anemomylos, Stratia, Koulines, Sarroco etc.). Also, as being the old peripheric road, it acted as a frontier between Garitsa and the other divisions of the old town.

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Κέρκυρα, 19.04.2009
01:44
Happy Easter!!
» John's Corfu Blog

Happy Easter from "John's Corfu World"!

Corfu Easter Fireworks 2009 at Esplanade, Corfu Town:

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Κέρκυρα, 15.04.2009
15:03
Philharmonic Society of Corfu- Easter in Corfu
» John's Corfu Blog

Eight great and famous tracks performed by the Philharmonic Society of Corfu during the Easter Festivities.

DOWNLOAD LINK

Tracks:

1) "Lohegrin" by R. Wagner
2) "Santa Filomena", marcia by R. Baragatti
3) "Marcia Sinfonica"
4) "Tannhauser" by R. Wagner
5) "Marcia Funebre" by I. Liberali
6) "Marcia Funebre O Ponos tis Manas" by D. Kafyris
7) "Adagio in Sol Minore" by T. Albinoni
8) "Amleto" by Fr. Faccio

Released in 2001

All rights reserved to Philharmonic Society of Corfu

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Κέρκυρα, 13.04.2009
18:18
Palm Sunday procession in Corfu Town
» John's Corfu Blog

Yesterday it was Palm Sunday for Orthodoxs and like every year there was a big procession (litany) in Corfu Town to celebrate Saint Spyridon's miracle of saving Corfiots from famine. Forteen bands from all over Corfu island participated in the procession, as well as many secondary education schools and scouts.

Mantzaros Philharmonic Society playing "Ta Vagia":

The Philarmonic Society of Corfu (Palaia) playing a marchia from the"Tannhauser" opera by Richard Wagner:

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Κέρκυρα, 11.04.2009
14:42
Easter in Corfu
» John's Corfu Blog

Many of you probably have heard that Easter in Corfu is spectacular, busy and cosmopolitan. That's right! Our Easter is one of the best internationally. It draws a huge amount of visitors who come from mainland Greece and from all over the world to see and participate in the local celebrations. Below is a brief description of what celebrations and events take place during the Holy Week in Corfu Town, taken from the Facebook group "EASTER IN CORFU / ΠΑΣΧΑ ΣΤΗΝ ΚΕΡΚΥΡΑ":

"At 11 a.m. on Palm Sunday, with pomp and ceremony, the procession of Saint Spiridon's relic begins. This procession, which is the largest and longest of all our Saints processions was consecrated in 1630, is in memory of the miracle St Spiridon performed to save the town from the plague. Nowadays, the evening before Palm Sunday, a prayer takes place on the rampart of Aghios Athanasios in the old fortress from where the Saint turned the terrible disease away. The traditional dish of this particular day is "stakofisi or cod Bianco", and is served in every household and taverna.

The Holy week in Corfu, just like everywhere in Greece, is dominated by the burial services held in the churches, the Fast and the expectation of the Resurrection. Leaving the town and out to the villages, the blossoming of nature during this spring period, the season of fertilization reaches the peak of its beauty. It is a magical sight for the visitor to experience the fragrances, the colors sparkling in the sun light - the white, the yellow, the purple and the green of the wild flowers, the blue of the sky and the sea combined with the stone of the buildings and monasteries - all this creates an unforgettable picture, a memory that will remain with you for ever. Visit the villages with the Venetian style houses, all newly white-washed for the Easter celebrations and surrounded by the beauty of the flourishing flowerbeds. Find the traditional tavernas with their outdoor seating areas and, under the warm sun, try the delicious Lenten foods washed down with typical Corfiot wine. When the sun sets and the chilly air starts to creep in, visit the local coffee shops where you can enjoy hot Greek coffee and a liqueur, chatting with the locals.

Visit the monasteries of Corfu, talk to the monks and if it is Tuesday of Holy Week, attend the mass which will include the famous Orthodox "Kassianis' Hymn" or if it is Thursday of Holy Week the mass dedicated to the Twelve Apostles. At Ai-Thanasis in Agros village, at Kira-Kokkinada in Lefkimmi village or at any other monastery celebrating the Easter Mass, the direct contact with the spirit during the Passion Week will be felt. Back to the town centre, at Ai Yiannis Church you can hear the chanting of the Mass in Byzantine rhythm or traditional masses are held in the monastery of Aghia Efimia at Mon-Repos, at Platytera Church in Mantouki, at Aghii Theodori in Garitsa and of course at the Metropolis, the Cathedral of Corfu. One characteristic of Easter in Corfu is the sensation of the 4-part chanting, oozing from the churches and filling the "kantounia" (narrow streets amongst the town houses), the homes and the people's hearts. This harmonic chant came from Crete in the 17th century and is known as Cretan music. Wednesday of Holy Week a concert of religious music, performed by the town choir takes place in the municipal theatre, announcing the approach of the Holy Passions through the church music.

Thursday of Holy Week you can attend the mass of the Twelve Apostles in Duomo, the Catholic Cathedral in the Town Hall square, where they light 12 candles in the beginning of the mass and blow one out at the end of the reading of each Apostle. Continuing the customs, on the evening of Thursday of the Holy Week the traditional "Kolombina', (the sweet bread with a red egg on the top) is shared and in each church the ceremony of the Crucifixion begins, the most important religious event of the Holy week.

The morning of Good Friday the ceremony of the "Deposition from the Cross" takes place and at noon of the same day in all churches, the congregation begin to pay their respects to the beautifully adorned floral Epitaph. Early in the afternoon each church, one after the other, starts the funeral procession, criss-crossing the main roads of the town and the Liston. In the suburbs of Garitsa, Anemomilos, San-Rocco and Mandouki as well as at the monasteries of Platytera and Paleokastritsa, the funeral procession takes place with ritual formality and emotion. During the procession of the Epitaphs, displaying the continuation of our cultural inheritance, the "choro" (choir) will chant the well known "E genee pase", the marchers will carry the "skoles" (4-sided banner), the "flamboura" (the remains of Byzantine flags), the enormous candles along with the Venetian lanterns, and the music of the funeral "marchies" (marches) performed by our philharmonic bands, whose golden helmets shine and sparkle in the afternoon sun whilst marching the well-trodden route around Corfu Town. The bands play an extremely important part on this particular day, the "Old Philharmonic Band" (red uniforms) play the Adagio by Albinioni. Followed by the "Mantzaros Band" (blue uniforms) who play the Marcia Funebre by Verdi and the "Kapodistrias Band" (shiny red uniforms) play the Elegia Funebre called Sventura by Mariani and the Funeral March by Chopin. The last procession at 9.45 p.m. is the Epitaph from the Metropolis Cathedral which, in combination with the "volta" (arcades), the beautiful buildings around the Liston and Venetian lamps, the purple cross and "boukes" on the Acropolis of the old fortress, is very emotional and reaches the peak, the climax of splendour.

Early morning of Easter Saturday at 6 a.m., in "Panagia ton Xenon" church the custom of the earthquake is re-enacted in remembrance of the earthquake created after the Resurrection, as described in the Holy Bible. At 9 a.m. the procession of the Epitaph of our Patron Saint begins from Saint Spiridon Church. This procession is the oldest, dating back to 1550 and has been consecrated in memory of His Miracle performed to save the island from starvation. Our bands play the Calde Lacrime by Micchelli, the Amleto by Faccio and the Marcia Funebre from the Heroic Symphony by Beethoven. Make sure that by 10.50 a.m. you are not standing under any windows or balconies. Try to be at "Pentofanaro" or " the Liston" or "Kofineta" to watch the whole custom in all its glory. At exactly 11 a.m. the first Resurrection takes place and is signified with the "botides"(clay pots) being thrown from the windows and balconies when the first "botos" (bell ring) is heard. This noisy custom, first started in Corfu town but has now been extended to the villages, is derived from the Venetians who, on New Year's day, used to throw their old things from the windows in order to receive new ones for the New Year. The Corfiots took this custom and used it to celebrate the most important Greek holiday, the Greek Easter. Nowadays, the old things have been replaced by pots and jugs full of water (this way they make a louder noise when they explode on the ground). Another explanation originates from the custom a pagan derivation. As Easter falls in the beginning of the plantation season, the newly harvested produce from the land was stored in new pots and the old ones were destroyed. After the throwing of the pots, the bands parade around the streets playing joyful marches. Meanwhile at the "Pinia" corner in the centre of town, another custom called "Mastela" is relived. During the week people are asked to throw small coins in a half-barrel decorated with myrtle and ribbons, and after the first Resurrection, that is at 11:00am, someone must dive into the barrel to collect the money. Once upon a time the diver was not a volunteer but an ignorant onlooker who was thrown into the barrel.

In Paxos the first Resurrection takes place traditionally and, as originally, in Aghios Iakovos in Fontana. When the priest says "Jesus is Risen" the believers bang the church chairs and the faithful outside the church attempt to be as noisy as possible using fireworks, fire-crackers, and even guns. In the villages they sacrifice the Easter lambs and with the fresh blood they design a cross above the door for good health, luck and to keep the evil spirits away.

Easter Saturday evening you can attend the Mass in the Catholic Cathedral Duomo where it is a pleasure to hear the organ being played. This Resurrection Mass finishes at 11 p.m. giving time for the faithful to attend the Orthodox celebration also. At 11.40 p.m. the Resurrection procession begins from Aghia Paraskevi Church, in Porta Remounda, and works its way down to the Espianada's "Palko" where at midnight, after the words "Christos Anesti"(Christ has risen) are lit up on the old fortress pinnacle, the spectacle is beyond any expectation. The fireworks display turns night into day, the lighting of thousands of candles in the hands of every man, woman and child, candles lining the buildings and balconies all around the square, the purple cross on the fortress becomes white and the bands begin to play joyful marches. Everyone wishes that this magical moment will never end. Once the fireworks display is over the "burning river of people" begins to wind its way out of the centre as everyone begins to make their way back home, usually to eat Mayiritsa, a soup or dish made from the sheep's intestine, that is traditionally eaten after midnight, after the Resurrection, to break the Fast.

Easter Sunday, early in the morning, a procession leaves from each church with the Resurrection icon and at 11 a.m. the Easter feast in the New fortress begins, organized by the Corfu Naval station. At 6.30 p.m. in Garitsa, the old procession of Aghias Triados Resurrection takes place. In Corfu, in contrast with the mainland traditions, the lamb on the spit is not part of Easter Sunday custom. Easter lunch Corfiot style is soup "avgolemono" with 2-3 different meats. Traditionally lamb on the spit is served on the Monday after Easter. However it is not unusual to see the locals outside the homes or in the fields patiently turning the lamb on the spit, in preparation for the feast ahead.

The week after Easter is called "Nia" New week and these are days of great religious importance with many events happening around the island. On the Monday after Easter each church, after the morning Mass, has a procession carrying the "Flamboura" (flag), the "Exapteriga" and the Cross chanting many Easter-orientated rhythms. The Tuesday after Easter at 5 p.m. there is a special ceremony where the relic of St Spiridon, the Patron Saint of the island is returned to his ornate silver coffin.

Nia Friday, the day of Zoodochou Pigis, great feasts are taking place all around the island with the most well-known being the feast in Paleokastritsa. Also on the Sunday after Easter, the day of Doubting Thomas, there are great celebrations in many of the villages."

Corfu Easter photos:

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Κέρκυρα, 06.04.2009
16:19
"The Prodigy - Warriors Dance" official video
» John's Corfu Blog

Official video for the second single out of the "Invaders must die" album! Enjoy!

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Κέρκυρα, 28.03.2009
14:45
FORGOTTEN CORFU 2: The British Cemetery
» John's Corfu Blog

Few of you may know that there is a British Cemetery just a few minutes walk from San Rocco square. It is located on the road to the prison, on the hill of San Salvatore (its address is Kolokotroni 22). Founded in 1814, when Corfu was under the British occupation (1814-1864), it was used as a place where british officials and residents were interred.

As you enter the property, the whole place looks more than a beautiful garden than a cemetery. The cemetery is gracely blossomed all year long with a great variety of flowers, bushes and trees. There is also a small basin with goldfishes and water lillies. The cemetery is crossed by a slight ascending road, on which someone can spot many types of flora, like the anemones, marguerites and the famous orchids.

As you enter, you can see at the left the older graves. In the middle of them, there is the Ossuary. The bones of the anonymous people had been interred in that monument. It should be noted, that during the British occupation, there were four cemeteries for the dead british people: this one, the cemetery at the Lazaretto (a small island near Vido, where, during the Venetian times, all people infected with leprosy had been carantined there), one on the spot where the Corfu Palace Hotel is now located and a fourth one on the east side of Vido island. All those cemeteries had been shut down after the end of the British occupation (1864) and the bones were transferred into the bigger cemetery left, the one on San Salvatore hill.

There are nearly 500 graves in the cemetery. It is still being used as a cemetery for the Agglican residents of Corfu. Among the most notable graves are: John Connors' grave, died in 1857, a british official honored by Queen Victoria, the monument of the seamen of HMS Saumarez and HMS Volage, which ships mined by the Albanias in 1946 (known as " The Corfu channel incident) and the graves of the officials of Leucada (former name: Santa Maura).

Many people visit the cemetery, not only to visit the graves of their ancestors, but also to admire the monuments, the flora and the serenity of the place. A notable visitor was King George the Second of Greeks, who loved having his walk on this grounds.

The cemetery is being administered by the Commonwealth War Graves Commision and by mr. Georgios Psailas, the keeper of the property.

Photogallery:

Acknowledgement: I would like to thank Mr. Psailas, the keeper of the cemetery, for his kindness to tour me through the grounds of this beautiful place.

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Κέρκυρα, 22.03.2009
13:56
Portugal's song for Eurovision 2009 Song Contest: Flor-de-Lis - Todas As Ruas Do Amor
» John's Corfu Blog

You may have notice my love for the Portuguese language and culture. So today, I decided to present you Portugal's Eurovision 2009 entry, a soft folk pop song called "Todas as ruas do amor", which means "All the streets of love", sung by folk group Flor-de-Lis (the band's name means "Flower of Lily"). The group was chosen to take part in this year's ESC after winning the "Festival de Canção" local song contest.

I found a youtube video with the song's lyrics and images of famous Portuguese landmarks and cities like the tower of Belém and Oporto with river Douro flowing through it.

Now, let's translate the song's lyrics:

Se sou tinta tu és tela - If I’m paint you are canvas
Se sou chuva és aguarela - If I’m rain you’re watercolour
Se sou sal és branca areia - I’f I’m the salt you’re white sand
Se sou mar és maré-cheia - If I’m sea you’re full-tide
Se sou céu és nuvem nele - If I’m sky you’re cloud on him
Se sou estrela és de encantar - If I’m star you’re charming
Se sou noite és luz para ela - If I’m night you’re light on it
Se sou dia és o luar - If I’m daylight you’re the moonlight
Sou a voz do coração - I’m the voice of the heart
Numa carta aberta ao mundo - In an open letter to the world
Sou o espelho d’emoção - I’m the mirror of emotion
Do teu olhar profundo - Of your deep look.
Sou um todo - I’m all
Num instante - In a second
Corpo dado - I give my body
Em jeito amante - Like a lover
Sou o tempo que não passa - I’m the time that doesn’t pass
Quando a saudade - When the saudade*
Me abraça - Holds me
Beija o mar o vento e a lua - Kiss the sea, the wind and the moon.
Sou um sol - I’m a sun
Em neve nua em todas as ruas - In naked snow. In all streets
Do amor - Of love
Serás meu e eu serei tua - You’ll be mine and I’ll be yours.
Se sou tinta tu és tela - If I’m paint you are canvas
Se sou chuva és aguarela - If I’m rain you watercolour
Se sou sal és branca areia - I’f I’m salt you’re white sand
e sou mar és maré-cheia - If I’m sea you’re full-tide
Se sou céu és nuvem nele - If I’m sky you’re cloud on him
Se sou estrela és de encantar - If I’m star you’re charming
Se sou noite és luz para ela - If I’m night you’re light on it
Se sou dia és o luar - If I’m daylight you’re the moonlight
Beija o mar o vento e a lua - Kiss the sea, the wind and the moon.
Sou um sol - I’m a sun
Em neve nua em todas as ruas - in naked snow. In all streets
Do amor - Of love
Serás meu e eu serei tua - You’ll be mine and I’ll be yours.

*The term "Saudade" can not be translated into English. A good article which descibes its meaning can be found here: [en.wikipedia.org]

Boa sorte Portugal! You will get my vote for sure!

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Κέρκυρα, 16.03.2009
22:37
Halikounas beach & Korision lake
» John's Corfu Blog

Some photos of Halikounas beach and Korision lake that I took yesterday. The images speak for themselves: the unspoiled beach and the protected habitat of Korision lake (a lake where many birds make a brief stop on their way to Europe in spring and back to Africa in autumn), provide one of the few places in Corfu where touristic development has not visited it yet.

Paradise, isn't it?

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Κέρκυρα, 12.03.2009
14:22
Ancient sculptured heads on an old Venetian building
» John's Corfu Blog

Have you ever noticed those sculptured heads of ancient men and women on that old building under renovation on Nikoforou Theotoki street? Does any of you know who were those people? I had that wonder since I was a boy. Are they mythical ancient greek gods? Or simply a type of gargoyles? Or figures of typical old corfiot people?

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Κέρκυρα, 06.03.2009
18:37
Brace yourself for the new Facebook layout!
» John's Corfu Blog

According to www.msn.co.uk:

"The world's number one social-networking site, Facebook, has announced that more changes to its look are afoot – news that will no doubt bring with it a barrage of complaints from users.

Although the new layout is not that much of a significant departure, when Facebook went through its first makeover the site's forums were alight with vitriol.

Freudian changes

Noticeable changes of the homepage include the 'What are you doing right now?' bar changing to the rather Freudian 'What's on your mind?'.

The readability of Events has improved as well, with birthdays and upcoming events shunted to the top. What is noticeable is that the advertising on the right-hand side has increased significantly.

The left-hand side of the page is actually being used now for Filters, so you can categorise your friends as school mates, work colleagues and so on.

The main stream of information that got so many users backs up when it was first introduced can now be cut down even more, which should reduce the amount of traffic received from those who have a lot of 'friends'.

Coming soon

There's no word on when the changes will take place, but Facebook is giving people plenty of warning by posting a 'Changes to the Home page are coming soon' banner on the site right now."

We should prepare ourselves for that change. I think Facebook will become more exciting and popular with its new layout.

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Κέρκυρα, 04.03.2009
19:49
Old venetian gate in Spilia
» John's Corfu Blog

One thing that fascinates me in places loaded with so much history is that every time you discover some hidden gems and corners as you walk by. Yesterday, I was walking in the Spilia district of old Corfu Town and I suddenly discovered something I've never seen before: An old venetian gate at the end of a dead-end alley. I suspect that this gate should have been the western entrance to the old venetian barn which was situated in what is now the building which houses the courts of Corfu.

Approaching closer to the gate you will notice a shield or "coat of arms".

Zooming the photo, you can recognize one of the ancient symbols of Corfu: the "τριήρης", the main vessel which ancient Greeks used in their naval battles. On the top of the shield, you can spot a crown.

It's too sad that the alley leading to the gate is so messy, looking like a slum... Couldn't this monument be promoted as another must see for someone interested in the venetian past of Corfu?

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Κέρκυρα, 28.02.2009
11:10
Depeche Mode - Wrong
» John's Corfu Blog

The new Depeche Mode video for "Wrong", the first single out of "Sounds Of The Universe".

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Κέρκυρα, 27.02.2009
15:53
Paleokastritsa: Where Ulysees first met Ariti
» John's Corfu Blog

You probably all have heard of Paleokastritsa. This picturesque place situated 25 km from Corfu Town (map) is one of the most recognisable places in the island and in the whole Greece. A combination of sharp cliffs, beautiful coves, it is the place that some archeologists believe that this was the place Ulysees met Ariti when he had been washed out by the sea in the mythical island of Scheria. Just off Paleokastritsa, there is a rock sticking out from the sea, which is mythically believed that it is the Ulysses petrified boat or a petrified vessel which tried to pirate the nearby monastery.
The six coves of Paleokastritsa are named Aghia Triada, Platakia, Alipa, Aghios Spyridon, Aghios Petros and Ampelaki. Most coves have caves, in which someone can visit with his own boat and get amazed by the natural beauty of the place.
Let's begin our photografic tour then. Most pictures taken in March of 2005.
The main beach of Paleokastritsa. Note how blue the water is and how impressive are these cliffs.

Climbing up the cliff to the monastery. One can get amazing views of central Paleokastritsa from there.

And finally the monastery! It worths all the walk up the hill. Founded in 1225, Paleokastritsa Monastery is a typical sample of monastery architecture with cloisters.

There is also a small museum inside which includes a small collection of byzantine and newer ecclesiastical relics and also a huge skeleton of a whale which had been washed out from the sea.

Impressive views can also be offered from the monastery.

Back to the village. You can have a stroll by the sea or lay down and stare at the beautiful scenery which unfolds beyond your eyes.

And the best for the end: the famous Corfiot sunset! The next set of pictures speak for themselves!

Hope you got impressed by the place as I am.

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Κέρκυρα, 26.02.2009
13:16
Lost S5E7 download links!
» John's Corfu Blog

Click on the links to download "The Life and Death of Jeremy Bentham"

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Password: apohxos

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Κέρκυρα, 23.02.2009
14:06
New Prodigy album released today! Read my review of the album.
» John's Corfu Blog

Today is the day I was waiting for so long! "Invaders Must Die" released under Prodigy's "Cooking Vinyl" label. It is their first album after 4 whole years (their last album was "Always Outnumbered, Always Outgunned". released in 2005). The album has eleven tracks. It is different in sound from the previous one, it is more old skool and ravy, just like their first two albums, "Experience" and "Music for the Jilted Generation". Obviously Liam has learned from his mistakes - most prodigy fans were disatisfied by the different sound of the previous album, we definately needed more phat beats, and voila! here they are at last! Let's move on my commentary on the album's tracks.

Invaders Must Die: The title track, was released as the first single off the album last December. It is rocky, for me it's like listening to Metallica on remix. Somewhere in the middle of the track you can hear the sample "We are the Prodigy!", just to remind us that the biggest electro/rave band is back. I like this track but it's not Prodigy enough.

Omen: The second single of the album. Featuring lyrics sung by Keith and Maxim, it's a dynamic big beat. The song's main melodic line is being played by a triangle too (which is funny but sounds quite childish to my ears.) Overall, it's a descent track, but not the best of the album.

Thunder: Based on an old reggae tune, sounds like "Out Of Space" from the "Experience" album. But it's not sounding as old skool, a huge phat beat is tearing your speakers just after the refrain is introduced in the beginning of the song.

Colours: A crazy rave tune sung by Keith Flint. Sounds like the stuff from the "Fat of the Land", same phat beat, same off-the-tune vocals.

Take Me To The Hospital: One of my favourites! A really soundblasting phat beat is comming off from your speakers which reminds "Narayan" a bit. Keith and Maxim provide their characteristic vocals too. Brilliant!

Warriors Dance: If any track out of the album reminds you of "No Good", that's it! "Warriors Dance" is vocally based on an old house song (Sorry, I don't remember the title of it right now). It would be a huge hit if ever released as a single. It is catchy and it makes you want to dance.

Run With The Wolves: Descent track too, it features Dave Grohl of Foo Fighters on drums. It's quite heavy. Keith and Maxim sing so loud on it!

Omen Reprise: The shortest track of the album, I can't understand why this is included in the album and not in "Omen" single. As the name suggests, it's based on "Omen".

World's On Fire: Great track, quite ravy with Keith and Flint sing "The world, the world, the world's on fire!". It is a typical Prodigy track and the most "Always Outnumbered Always Outgunned" of all.

Piranha: Not a bad song, but also one of the weakest in my opinion.

Stand Up: The closing track is the most weird of the album. Actually it sounds like Primal Scream, too british and 90s sounding. Oh, it's an instrumental too. Sounds fun though, it's something different.

There is a limited deluxe edition of the album which has a bonus CD with four instrumentals: "Black Smoke", "Fighter Beat", "The Big Gun Down" and "Wild West". They are not a reason to buy the slightly overpriced edition, but if you are curious you can download them from the Internet. But: Buy this album, if you love the Prodigy! It worths every penny of it! Indeed, it is better than the previous one and one of their best. Bravo Liam! You didn't let us down this time! 5 out of 5 for you!

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Κέρκυρα, 20.02.2009
13:51
Betachronic's "Deja Vu" compilation just released
» John's Corfu Blog

Just click on [www.betachronic.com] and visit the releases section. Then download the two parts of the "Deja Vu" compilation! It features ten tracks of the most acknownlodged uplifting/psychedelic artists in Greece, like Dementia, Mervit, Negous, BrainSysteM etc. Enjoy!

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Κέρκυρα, 19.02.2009
13:49
New Lost episode for download: "The Life and Death of Jeremy Bentham"
» John's Corfu Blog

LOST S5E6 -"316"

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Password: apohxos

Enjoy!

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13:38
This is the song that Greece will compete in Eurovision 2009!
» John's Corfu Blog

Yesterday, greek Eurofans voted for which of the three candidate songs will go to the Eurovision final in Moscow this May. The winner is "This Is Our Night", the most uptempo of the three, performed by Sakis Rouvas. In my opinion, the song is good BUT it lacks the greek element and a more complex choreography that will help the whole performance to compete with the other countries which has an already favoured song. I hope Sakis and choreographer, Fokas Evagelinos find a "gimmick" to promote the potential of the song in a better way.

See the video from the yesterdays perfomance of "This Is Our Night":

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Κέρκυρα, 17.02.2009
19:54
BrainSysteM - Etherovatis
» John's Corfu Blog

Taken from the forthcoming Betachronic "Deja Vu" compilation. Please visit www.betachronic.com to download for free all the latest releases.

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Κέρκυρα, 12.02.2009
17:43
Lost S5E04 - S5E05 download links!
» John's Corfu Blog

SEASON 5 - EPISODE 04 "The Little Prince":

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password for the rar files: apohxos

SEASON 5 - EPISODE 05 "The Place Is Death":

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password for the rar files: apohxos

ENJOY :)

Περισσότερα... »
17:29
Eurovision 2009: The candidate songs!
» John's Corfu Blog

Today, Eurovision candidate for Greece, Sakis Rouvas and ERT gave a press conference in which the three candidate songs for Eurovision 2009 song contest were presented. On February the 18th we will know which of the three will be voted to be the one which represent Greece in the contest.

Here are the Youtube links of the songs:

Sakis Rouvas - Out Of Control:

Sakis Rouvas - This Is Our Night:

Sakis Rouvas - Right On Time:

I think all of the three are mediocre, but "This Is Our Night" is the most uptempo and interesting of the all - Sakis can show his dancing skills with that song, contrary to "Right On Time", which is a ballad.

What song you think is the best?

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Κέρκυρα, 09.02.2009
19:36
FORGOTTEN CORFU 1: Dessila's Factory: A part of Corfu's Industrial past
» John's Corfu Blog

Dessila's Old Factory relics has always been a controversial topic for Corfiots. What is the best way to exploit the vast expanses of the former factory site? Should we demolish the late 19th century industrial buildings and built appalling apartment buildings or turn it into a big parking site that is so desperately needed in Corfu? Or should we restore those old factory buildings and turn them into an entertainment/ cultural complex like Gkazi in Athens and Mylos in Salonica?

Actually, the site had been sold to some foreign developers who dreamed of making a shopping mall there. But they did not know that the whole site sits on the ancient Corfu cemetery, so they had to fully excavate the site first to see if there are any ancient relics which need to be preserved. Archeologists found some ancient tombs but nothing important actually. The real loss was the destruction of some of the old industrial buildings. Although listed as protected, the developers found an illegal way to destroy them! For the time being, work on the site has been halted - I heard that the developers mysteriously decided not to build anything on the site. A victim of credit crunch? An economic scandal? Who knows!

The thing is that this site needs to be preserved in a way that the old industrial buildings should be restored and used as a museum or as cultural venues. In addition, the vast site should be turned into a landscaped park.

To have a rough idea of the site, check some photos I managed to take of the site from an apartment complex's parking in Garitsa - You can see the potential of the site and some of its really interesting buildings:

Some old photos of the factory, when it was in full operation (pictures taken from an interesting article of the site's history (in Greek): [www.mykerkyra.gr] )

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Κέρκυρα, 03.02.2009
17:29
NO COMMENT
» John's Corfu Blog

Piles of uncollected garbage in Pelekas national road, near Koulines. Piles like this are scattered all over the island, as a result of the reaction of Temploni local residents, who want the nearby Temploni landfill site to be relocated.

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Κέρκυρα, 27.01.2009
12:06
Ace Ventura @ Shadow, Athens - 24/01/09
» John's Corfu Blog

Last week, I was in Athens, staying at a friend's house. There was a progressive trance party at Psirri (Israeli producer Ace Ventura played) so we decided to go. The club was full of people and the music was so loud that my ear were humming for a whole day after the party. Overall, me and my friends had a great time and hear descent prog trance.

PICTURES:

VIDEOS:

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Κέρκυρα, 18.01.2009
13:39
Three pieces from the "Le Mepris" soundtrack
» John's Corfu Blog

I made this video with Windows Movie Maker. It's three pieces out from the "Le Mepris" soundtrack, a Goddard film featuring Brigitte Bardot. Personally, I consider this soundtrack to be one of the most important film music ever made - serene, passionate, longing and sensitive. Have a look at the video and tell me what you think of the music and what were your impressions of the film (if you have seen it of course).

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Κέρκυρα, 13.01.2009
12:48
Old Port of Corfu: what a disgusting sight!
» John's Corfu Blog

NO COMMENTS! THE PICTURES SPEAK FOR THEMESELVES! (SHAME ON YOU LOCAL POLITICIANS WHO BECOME WEALTHY BY EATING MONEY FROM THE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS AND YOU DO NOT GIVE A DAMN ABOUT THIS ISLAND!)

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Κέρκυρα, 12.01.2009
15:37
A classic figure of Corfiot summer nightlife: The dancin' grandpa!
» John's Corfu Blog

He is here every summer, joining the biggest parties on the island and spending his days at Aloha beach bar in Glyfada beach. He's dancing all day and all night without stop (even in the ferry to Italy he was dancing at the ship's discotheque). The video is from Aloha bar (I didn't shot it, just found it somewhere in the net):

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12:46
The Prodigy "Invaders Must Die" cover artwork!‏
» John's Corfu Blog

The fifth studio album by the prodigy 'invaders must die' will be released on mon 23rd february 2009, with the first single 'omen' being released on monday 16th january 2009.

Tracklisting
Invaders Must Die
Omen
Thunder
Colours
Take Me To The Hospital
Warriors Dance
Run With The Wolves
Omen (Reprise)
World's On Fire
Piranha
Stand Up

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Κέρκυρα, 11.01.2009
16:32
''THE FIRST TRIP TO GOA'' night with: dj marX @ Edem, 10/01/09
» John's Corfu Blog

Here are some photos and videos of a goa/psy trance night at Edem, which is apparently open this winter as an alternative solution of the somewhat mainstream (and boring I dare say) Corfiot nightlife. Resident dj MarX was on the decks, playing a wide range of progressive, goa and psychedelic trance.

Pics:

Videos:

Infected Mushroom's hit "Becoming Insane":

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Κέρκυρα, 08.01.2009
17:41
The renovated Lemonia square
» John's Corfu Blog

Have you seen the newly renovated Lemonia's square? A place which had been left undeveloped for several years has been finaly given a facelift in order to become more attractive and welcoming to residents and visitors alike.

BUT! Shortly after the renovation, the locals cutted the picturesque lemon trees from which the square had given its name.

The "reason" for doing so, was that the municipality prohibited parking in the square, so the residents in order to show their anger, cutted down those beautiful trees! What a shame...! Live your myth in ...Corfu dear future visitors of this damned place!

Also, what will happen to that row of ruined old buildings? They look like that since I remember myself!

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Κέρκυρα, 03.01.2009
13:29
New Years Eve at Edem Bar, Dassia!
» John's Corfu Blog

On NYE, I decided instead of going to a very busy and mainstream bar, I preferred to go somewhere where I could listen the music I like and have a drink without getting annoyed by any overcrowding. So I went to Edem bar at Dassia, a place which is most known as a beach bar, open in summer. Most local people don't know that actually Edem is also open during the colder months of the year.

Edem is a good alternative to the overcrowded and mainstream Corfu Town bars, offering nights with different kind of music, ranging from rock music to trance and psychedelic. There is also a nice fireplace which makes the place feel warm and welcoming.

Here are some photos and one video from my NYE at Edem. Dj Dimo Koursaris on the decks - known as the resident dj of the now long gone Hippodrome club:

Ame - Rej: A great progressive track which made its way to mainstream success:

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Κέρκυρα, 02.01.2009
16:59
Corfu goes to Hollywood...!
» John's Corfu Blog

I accidentally found this link from Youtube:

It is from the movie "Executioner", probably a b-movie from the 1970s, starring George Peppard and the unknown back then Joan Collins. ( [www.imdb.com] ). The film is about a British intelligence agent who has to track down a fellow spy suspected of being a double agent. It also stars Gisela Dali, a well known greek soft porn actress, famous in the 70s.

Note in the youtube video provided how Corfu Town looked back in the 70s with traffic flowing through the now pedestrianised Liston.

Do you have any more infos and stories about that particular film? Any memories from the shootings?

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Κέρκυρα, 01.01.2009
00:01
Happy New Year!
» John's Corfu Blog

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