Many tourists from Serbia visit the island of Corfu at least once in their lifetime, which is deeply connected to our history and suffering. In addition to the island of Vido and the Serbian House, visit the Church of Saint Spyridon, which is considered the soul of the island. This church, known for its miraculous relics and traditions, preserves the relics of the saint that helped the islanders in numerous troubles, including epidemics and attacks. Discover why Saint Spyridon is so revered among believers and visitors during your next visit to Corfu.

About Saint Spyridon, the Patron Saint of Corfu

Saint Spyridon, the patron saint of Corfu, is known throughout the Orthodox world as a miracle worker and a great saint who has been helping people for over 1,600 years. Although he lived in the 4th century in Cyprus, his name is inseparably linked to the history and spiritual life of the island of Corfu. His relics, found preserved after his death with the scent of basil, are kept in the Church of Saint Spyridon in the old town of Corfu, where they are deeply respected to this day.
It is interesting to note that the average Corfiot (even the young ones) cannot pass by the Church of St. Spyridon without entering and lighting a candle. Read on to find out why in the rest of the text.

Life of Saint Spyridon

Born into a modest family in Cyprus, Saint Spyridon stood out for his simplicity, humility, and dedication to faith. As a shepherd, and later a bishop in Trimifunt, he spent most of his life devoted to the service and defense of the Orthodox faith. Historical sources record that Spyridon participated in the First Ecumenical Council in Nicaea in 325, where he defended the Orthodox faith against Arian heretics. He is known for numerous miracles, including healings and rescuing people in distress.
His death in 348 did not mark the end of his work; on the contrary, believers believe that the saint continued to help people even after his death.

When Cyprus was attacked by the Arabs in the 7th century, the relics of Saint Spyridon were found intact, which was the first sign of his miraculous power.

Transfer of Relics to Istanbul and Corfu

After the attack on Cyprus, the relics of Saint Spyridon were transferred to Istanbul around 680, where they were kept in the Church of the Holy Apostles.
After the fall of Constantinople to the Ottomans in 1453, a monk managed to escape the city carrying the relics of Saint Spyridon and Saint Theodora in saddlebags on a donkey. He crossed the Aegean Sea and arrived in Corfu, where the locals welcomed him with great respect.
The relics of Saint Theodora were handed over to the church, while the relics of Saint Spyridon were entrusted to the prominent Voulgaris family. In 1589, the family built a church where the relics are still kept today, in a splendid silver shrine decorated with enamel, made in Vienna in 1867.

Miracle Worker Saint

There are many testimonies of the miraculous power of Saint Spyridon, both personal and collective, and we will mention some of the most famous ones.

Saint Spyridon saved Corfu from major disasters several times. First, he protected the island from famine, then from the plague, as well as from the Ottoman attacks in 1716, when his miraculous intervention is believed to have caused the retreat of the enemy.

  • Famine: During the 17th century, the island of Corfu suffered a severe famine caused by poor weather conditions and enemy attacks. According to accounts, the people prayed to Saint Spyridon to help and protect them from famine. Many believers claim that after these prayers, better agricultural conditions came, which helped reduce hunger.
  • Plague: The plague hit Corfu in 1645, and the population was afraid of great losses. At this time, Saint Spyridon was invoked as a protector, his relics were displayed, and prayers were offered to him for help. It is believed that prayers to his relics were answered, and in a short period of time, the number of sick people drastically decreased, which many attributed to his miraculous power.
  • Ottoman Attack: During the second battle for Corfu, the Ottomans attacked the island in 1716. At this moment, the residents prayed to Saint Spyridon for protection. According to legend, his image appeared on the battlefield, causing panic among the Ottoman soldiers and leading to their retreat. This event is celebrated as a key point in Corfu’s history, and Saint Spyridon was declared the protector of the island.

Thanks to this belief, the saint received the status of protector of the island, and processions are held every year through the old town of Corfu in memory of his help.

Many sightings, stories, and legends surround Saint Spyridon, including those of his physical appearance in places of trouble, deeply ingrained in the collective memory of the locals. Many believers claim to have seen him walking the streets of the city at night, modestly dressed, wearing his slippers, sometimes described as in his hands or on his feet. For this reason, every year a woman makes a new pair of slippers for the saint, which are then broken and distributed to believers as talismans.

Celebration of Saint Spyridon

December 12th marks the feast day of Saint Spyridon.
For three days (from December 11th to 13th), his relics are displayed and open to the public so that believers can pay homage to the miracle worker and protector.

During the celebration, city orchestras parade through the streets where large treats, called lokumades, are prepared and distributed. Both men and women participate in the preparation of the treats, and you can find more details in our post here.

This is the only state holiday celebrated only in Corfu and not in the rest of Greece. The celebrations begin on the evening of the 11th when the Christmas lights are officially lit in the city of Corfu. when the Christmas lights are also lit.

In addition to personal beliefs, Saint Spyridon greatly contributes to the preservation of faith, tradition, and community spirit among the locals.

How to Visit the Church of Saint Spyridon?

The Church of Saint Spyridon is located in the heart of the old town of Corfu, behind the famous Liston. Its distinctive red bell tower overlooks the surrounding buildings and has become a symbol of the island. Tourists and believers from all over the world come to pay homage to the saint’s relics, which are often exposed to the public.

A visit to the church is recommended after the morning liturgy when the church is quieter, and visitors have the opportunity to pray in peace. Upon entering, visitors are expected to behave appropriately and dress modestly – men should wear long pants, while women should have their shoulders covered.

Conclusion

Saint Spyridon is not just a historical figure; he is a symbol of faith, hope, and protection for many and continues to inspire and attract believers and visitors to Corfu. This church, along with the saint himself, represents the heart of the island’s spiritual life, and the story of Saint Spyridon remains deeply ingrained in the tradition and history of Corfu.

If you are planning a visit to Corfu, check out our accommodation offer HERE or write to us directly at nikana@nikana.gr for a recommendation of suitable accommodation.