Church of St Jason and St Sosipater
Corfu's oldest church, a 1000-year-old Byzantine basilica with remnants of ancient frescoes and a rich history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Church of St Jason and St Sosipater
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Corfu's oldest church, a 1000-year-old Byzantine basilica with remnants of ancient frescoes and a rich history.
"A must-see historic gem, offering a glimpse into Corfu's ancient past and Byzantine architecture."
🎯 Check Opening Hours
Interior access can be limited; confirm visiting times beforehand to avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Self-Guided Exploration
Use Google Maps for a self-guided walking tour of the historic city and discover the church.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Byzantine Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the archetypal Byzantine basilica structure, built with ancient stones. A true architectural marvel.
Faded Fresco Remnants
Interior
Glimpse the uncovered parts of ancient wall paintings, offering a hint of the church's once-splendid frescoes.
Historical Sanctuary
Historical Context
Understand its past as a safe haven for royalty, adding a layer of intrigue to its ancient walls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Corfu's Oldest Gem
A Glimpse into Byzantine History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Opening Hours
Interior access can be limited; confirm visiting times beforehand to avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Self-Guided Exploration
Use Google Maps for a self-guided walking tour of the historic city and discover the church.
🏛️ Appreciate the History
Imagine its past as a sanctuary and admire the ancient stones and fresco remnants.
☕ Nearby Cafes & Food
Plenty of spots nearby for coffee and great food after your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Opening Hours
Interior access can be limited; confirm visiting times beforehand to avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Self-Guided Exploration
Use Google Maps for a self-guided walking tour of the historic city and discover the church.
🏛️ Appreciate the History
Imagine its past as a sanctuary and admire the ancient stones and fresco remnants.
☕ Nearby Cafes & Food
Plenty of spots nearby for coffee and great food after your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Church of St Jason and St Sosipater as Corfu's oldest and a significant historical site, appreciating its ancient architecture and the evocative remnants of frescoes. While the interior can be basic, its historical importance and the chance to glimpse past artwork make it a worthwhile visit, especially when combined with exploring the charming historic city.
"We went to Corfu on a very long cruise thru the Mediterranean. When we stopped here, we took a self guided walking tour using Google maps and my research. It is an interesting historic city on the waterfront and it was fun just looking around. Plenty of places to stop for coffee and great food.
We found this great old church by accident. It is over 1000 years old and is the oldest church in Corfu."
THE EXPLORER
"The temple considered to be the oldest church on the Island of Kerkyra. Being approximately 1000 years old, it encourages the visitor to contemplate and pray in its majestic walls. The patrons of the church are saint Jason and saint Sosipater, who were the disciples of the saint Paul himself. Interestingly, the place was once used as a safe haven for the for the Katherine, wife of Thomas Palaiologos, a brother of the Emperor Constantine XI, after the fall of the Constantinopole to the Ottomans."
Antoni Sieńko
"The most important Middle Byzantine monument on the island. The church was erected around 1000 with the use of stones from the surrounding ancient buildings. Unfortunately, there is no information if / when the temple is open to visit the interior."
Patrycja Kućmierczyk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in Corfu town, making it accessible via walking tours or local transport. Many visitors find it easily during a self-guided walking tour using Google Maps.
Parking in Corfu town can be challenging. It's recommended to use public transport or walk if you are staying in the city center.
Corfu town is well-served by local buses. Check the local bus routes for the most convenient stop near the church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the church is generally free, but it's advisable to check for any specific admission policies or donation requests.
Opening hours can vary, and there's often limited information available. It's best to inquire locally or check for any posted signs upon arrival.
Yes, the interior is worth seeing, but access might be restricted. Some visitors have noted that it's best to arrive before closing time.
While official guided tours might not be widely advertised, many local walking tours of Corfu town include this historic site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's considered the oldest church on Corfu, dating back approximately 1000 years. It was built using stones from surrounding ancient buildings and once served as a sanctuary.
Inside, you'll find remnants of ancient wall paintings that offer a glimpse into its past splendor. The architecture itself is a key feature.
The exterior architecture is picturesque, and the interior, with its historical remnants, can also be interesting to photograph, though lighting might be challenging.
A visit can be brief, around 30 minutes to an hour, especially if you're exploring the surrounding historic area as well.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the church is located in Corfu town, which offers numerous cafes and restaurants for dining and refreshments.
Corfu town boasts a variety of culinary options, from traditional Greek dishes to international cuisine, with many places offering great food.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Thousand Years of History
Beyond its architectural significance, the church holds a poignant historical role. It once served as a safe haven, notably for Katherine, the wife of Thomas Palaiologos, brother of the last Byzantine Emperor. This detail adds a layer of human drama and historical importance, connecting the church to the tumultuous events following the fall of Constantinople. Visiting the church offers a chance to contemplate these historical narratives within its ancient walls.
While the interior may not boast the vibrant frescoes of some other Byzantine churches, the remnants of old wall paintings are incredibly evocative. These uncovered sections provide a tantalizing glimpse into how splendid the church must have looked in its prime. The experience of seeing these faded artworks, combined with the basic yet majestic structure, creates a powerful sense of stepping back in time. It's an archetypal example of a Byzantine basilica, offering a profound connection to centuries past.
Architectural Significance and Interior Exploration
The interior of the church, while basic in its current state, holds immense historical value. Visitors have noted that it's crucial to try and see the inside, as it offers a unique perspective on the church's past. The remnants of old wall paintings are particularly captivating. Although many frescoes were plastered over with time, the few parts that have been uncovered again allow visitors to imagine the splendor that once adorned these walls. This experience is a key reason why many recommend visiting the interior, even if it requires a bit of effort to gain access.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit