Paleokastritsa: Where Ulysses first met Ariti

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.