Pontikonisi (mouse island) is the most iconic image of Corfu, the noble and beautiful island in the Ionian Sea. That’s what Rena Vlachopoulou (a famous Greek actress) sang about in her song “Corfu, Corfu with Pontikonisi…”. But before we can visit Pontikonisi, we have to pass by another place in Corfu that has a lot of history and charm: The Cannon(Kanoni). This place was influenced by the French, who arrived there “first” in 1798 and left their mark on everything.
This is what history tells us: In 1798, the French occupied Corfu and built a battery south of Paleopolis. They also saved a cannon that is still there today and attracts many visitors. Everyone who comes to Corfu wants to see Kanoni and its amazing views. You can admire the sea, the sunset and the colors from Kanoni. You can also watch the planes landing and taking off very close to you. How is that possible? Because there is a bridge for pedestrians that connects Kanoni with the other side of the lagoon. The airport is near that point, so you can enjoy a unique show from the bridge.
Kanoni: An important piece of history in Corfu
Kanoni is not only a place of natural beauty, view and sunset. It is also a place of history and culture where you can see the ancient city of Corfu and the old temple of Artemis. There is also fun to visit the casino. You can visit the Vlacherna Monastery at the bottom of the hill. From there, you can take a boat to Pontikonisi and remember the song of Vlachopoulou.
And if you want to explore more, Kanoni is close to everything. You can go to the Old or New Fortress, the palaces of St. Michael and St. George, the public market and the cafes and bars of Corfu. They have something for everyone, locals and visitors.
Kanoni, which means 'Cannon' in Greek, got its name from a cannon that was left behind by the French when they occupied Corfu in 1798. The French built a battery south of Paleopolis and the preserved cannon remains there today, attracting many visitors and serving as a historical landmark.
Kanoni is uniquely positioned near Corfu Airport, connected by a pedestrian bridge that crosses over the lagoon. This proximity allows visitors to watch planes landing and taking off from very close range, creating a unique and memorable experience while enjoying the scenic views.
From Kanoni, you can see panoramic views of the sea, stunning sunsets, and the famous Pontikonisi (Mouse Island). You can also observe planes taking off and landing, and the area provides views of the ancient city of Corfu and historical landmarks like the old temple of Artemis.
To reach Pontikonisi from Kanoni, you first visit the Vlacherna Monastery located at the bottom of the hill near Kanoni. From there, you can take a boat to Pontikonisi, the iconic Mouse Island that is one of Corfu's most recognizable landmarks.
Near Kanoni, you can find several important historical sites including the Old and New Fortresses, the ancient city of Corfu, the old temple of Artemis, the palaces of St. Michael and St. George, the Vlacherna Monastery, and the public market. The area is also close to cafes, bars, and a casino.
