Last updated on June 25th, 2025 at 01:57 pm
First Roman era (229 BCE– 379 CE)
After the Peloponnesian War, internal conflicts between democrats and oligarchs weakened the state, leading to the dissolution of its alliance with Athens.
Illyrian pirates briefly took control, providing an opportunity for the Romans, who captured Kerkyra in 229 BCE. Granting autonomy to Corfiots, the Romans used the island as a naval base.
Corfu, like many Greek city-states, accepted Roman sovereignty for protection, becoming part of the Roman Empire.
In the first century CE, Christianity arrived, introduced by St. Paul’s disciples, Jason, and Sosipatros.
After Emperor Constantine died in 337 CE, the Roman Empire split into three sections. Corfu found itself in the Western Empire, covering Greece, Italy, and Rome’s African territories. The island’s history unfolded within this changing imperial landscape.
Medieval Times in Corfu’s History
Early Byzantine period (379 CE– 562 CE)
In 339 CE, during Emperor Theodosius’s reign, the Roman Empire was re-divided, placing Corfu in the Eastern Empire, also known as the early Byzantine Empire. This Byzantine period spanned around three centuries.
Sadly, this era was marred by Corfu’s susceptibility to frequent barbarian raids and pirate invasions. The island lacked sufficient protection, making it vulnerable to these threats, which significantly impacted the region during this time.
More about History
Corfu Historical Milestones in a Nutshell
Explore the condensed timeline of significant events that have shaped the history of Corfu:
Corfu: Union With Greece and Modern Times
On the 21st of May 1864, the British ruled Corfu and together with all the Ionian Islands, following the London Agreement and the Ionian Parliament’s resolution, united with Greece
Corfu of the Middle Ages on a Map of 1575
This map of Corfu of 1575 was designed like all medieval maps. According to the sources of that time and lots of imagination
Corfu at Prehistoric and Ancient Times
Corfu has been inhabited since the Stone Age.
At that time it was part of the mainland and the sea that today separates it from the mainland was only a small lake
Roman Era and Early Byzantine Period
At the time of emperor Theodosius (339 AD), the Roman empire was re-divided into east and west, Corfu then belonged to the east empire
Corfu Middle Ages and Byzantine Period
During this period the whole island was exposed to frequent barbarian raids and pirate invasions
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