Famous People Associated With Corfu

Corfu may bring in a series of old school vibes, but you’ll also notice the island has a cosmopolitan character. That’s because the island has been through a plethora of cultural influences. It was a hotspot for thinkers, artists and liberals from all over the world.

Corfu has always been an attractive place for those interested in inspiration and learning. With these thoughts in mind, it is no surprise why many prominent figures in history are related to it.

While everyone knows a thing or two about Gerald Durrell or perhaps Sisi, here are some other famous people related to Corfu.

Ioannis Kapodistrias

Ioannis Kapodistrias was born in Corfu. He is known all around Greece for being the first governor of the country after obtaining independence. Basically, he is associated with the feeling of freedom, as well as the beginnings of the modern Greek country.

He was not just a prolific diplomat and politician, but also a progressive analyst and a thinker. He considered education one of the best investments in people, so many local projects were started at his initiative. You can also visit a local museum dedicated to him.

Dionysios Solomos

Dionysios Solomos is a national poet in Greece. The first couple of verses from his Hymn to Liberty became the national anthem. He was born in Zakynthos, but his life is strongly connected to Corfu as well.

He came to Corfu because the island was a hub for artists. He joined an intellectual circle for the literary production of Greece. In fact, this is how the Heptanese school was created. He also has a museum in Corfu.

Albert Cohen

The French novelist of Jewish heritage was actually born in Corfu, yet most people are not aware of it. He was also known as a journalist and diplomat. He spent some years of his childhood in France, but he was born in a Greek family in Corfu.

He had a glowing career and received multiple awards, including one from the French Academy for a novel. Today, he is remembered in Corfu through an association, as well as a street named after him.

Nikolaos Mantzaros

Every Greek knows who Nikolaos Mantzaros is. After all, the composer is responsible for the music for the national anthem. However, that is not everything, since he also had an impressive contribution to the musical industry of his age.

He was an important local figure. Today, a local band bears his name. You can also visit a museum dedicated to him and his work.