British Cemetery, Corfu

The Corfu British Cemetery, also known as the English or British Cemetery, is a hidden gem on the popular Greek island of Corfu. The cemetery was opened in the mid-19th century and served as a military cemetery for British soldiers stationed on the island. Today, it provides an interesting glimpse into Corfu's past.

The cemetery contains 13 First World War burials and 16 Second World War burials, mostly casualties from destroyers mined in the Corfu channel. Additionally, there are 438 non-war military and civilian graves maintained by the Commission, including an unnamed civilian teacher buried in Plot 3, Grave 20. The cemetery also features a collective grave containing an unspecified number of unidentified victims of the collision of H.M.S. Orwell in Plot 3, Grave 4.

The lush and garden-like cemetery is home to more than 500 graves, including those of civilians. While the island is now part of Greece, the cemetery is still used today by Anglican families descended from British settlers.

In the warmer months of April and May, the cemetery is filled with beautiful orchids, adding to its serene atmosphere. The gravestones are surrounded by luscious grasses, plants, and trees, making the whole place feel more like a forgotten garden than a graveyard. Even tortoises can be seen roaming freely around the cemetery, soaking up the sun.

The caretaker of the graveyard is a wealth of information and can tell visitors all about the cemetery's history and notable burials. For those interested in history or seeking a peaceful escape, the Corfu British Cemetery is a must-visit destination.