2 - UNESCO: World Heritage

DESCRIPTION
In morphological terms, the town monuments built between the 13 th and the 15 th cent (which no longer exist or
whose original phases are no longer identifiable) must have been dominated by Gothic elements. Those built
during the 16 th and 17 th century (most of which still exist), follow mainly Renaissance and Mannerist standards.
In those monuments the single aisle basilica type often preserves an unusual feature, a perimetrical corridor in
the shape of the Greek letter Π (known here as the exonarthex). Corfiot churches are always associated with
the priest's residence, which is either attached to the main structure or an independent one or two-storey
annex. Three-aisled basilicas are also encountered, though not as often as the single aisle ones.
Corfiot churches differ substantially in terms of size and decorative wealth from Western examples. In general
their facades are simple, set off with the help of stone frames set around their apertures, even in the most
important structures. In cases of monuments with a perimetrical corridor, the main body of the church is raised
one level higher and its long sides are lit, at least in earlier examples, through two large semi-circular lunettes
(mezzalune), a typical element of Venetian religious building construction. The end of the period established
tall windows on side walls. The woman’s balcony (gynaikonitis) was usually lit through two arched windows,
located on the narrow side, while above these a circular lunette (a purely western element) supported the
lighting or served the ventilation of the roof, at the same time lending emphasis to the facade axis. Attached to
the churches are tall belfries, tower-like or in the form of a pierced wall with spiral ornamentation.
During the 18 th century few new monuments were built, whereas a great number of older ones underwent
reconstruction (horizontal and vertical extensions, external renovation). The architectural type which continued
to prevail was that of the single- aisled, rarely that of the three-aisled basilica. The complete dominance of
western standards is obvious in both new and renovated monuments.
The simple facades contrast with the elaborate and deeply evocative church interior, as this developed after
the 17 th century. The stone iconostasis with carved decoration, the portable icons, in many cases the painted
ceiling (known as the ourania, or ‘heavens’), the carved wooden stalls, the candelabra and various offerings
combine to create an atmosphere of devotion.
The proportions of the nave are roughly 1:2. The sanctuary, which reaches a width equal to one fourth of the
main space, ends in one or three usually large, semi-circular or semi-hexagonal niches. There is usually a
stone ciborium above the altar, a feature imported from the West, as are also the prie dieu each standing to
either side of the iconostasis. At the other end of the church, opposite the sanctuary, there is the elevated
gynaikonitis (balcony reserved for women only), isolated from the main nave by a wooden balustrade,
according to eastern tradition. The floor usually forms three levels: the upper level belonging to the sanctuary
and the middle one reaching the side doorways. The entrance is always protected by a wooden windbreak.
The orientation of churches located in towns is not fixed, but follows the urban planning arrangement distinctive
to every individual case. Churches are usually closely surrounded by dwellings, so that only some of their side
walls are left free. As a result the main entrance is located either on the narrow or on the long side, depending
on the orientation of the church.
The Old Town of Corfu Nomination for inclusion on the World Heritage List 10
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