Villa 1870 Corfu’s history
The mansion
Villa 1870 Corfu, a family holiday villa, is a luxurious traditional Corfiot mansion built in 1870 by a wealthy man, of the aristocratic class of Corfu. He was the son of a wealthy and powerful family that had a strong tradition in the fields of construction and commerce for three generations. The family’s fortune included many acres of land, lots of buildings on the island, two of the most potent pottery factories, sailing ships of 200 tons (bratseres), and mythical wealth. During the period of British rule, he emerged as a master builder, obtained permission to build luxurious buildings, and built many of the Corfu’s mansions for other noble families.
In 1870 he built this mansion for himself and his family on the hill today called “Kefalomantoyko”. He chose the best part of the hill to build and thus endowed it with an enchanting view of the blue Ionian Sea. At that time the hill belonged to his family and constituted the house’s garden! Later, this land was distributed to the descendants and today the garden surrounding the mansion covers 2 acres.
Venetian Architecture
The mansion was designed by an English architect for the merchant and his family. The result was a mansion in Venetian (traditional Corfiot) style with elements of English architecture. Characteristic elements of Venetian architecture are the Venetian blinds, the arches in the lounge, and the patio that leads to the garden. The heavy wooden door with the iron in the main entrance of the house is of the 19 century, while the interior wooden staircase joining the three floors is in English style. All these elements give a nostalgic mood to the charming mansion and make guests feel like being part of a fairytale! The garden all around the house is also in English style with trees, flowers, and rare plants. It hides a lot of corners for relaxation, while is ideal for romantic walks. The villa is one of the characteristic buildings of Corfiot architecture and is included in a two-volume collection of Corfiot mansions. (Corfiot Mansion Cottages, edited by K.D. Karamoutsos). As characteristically mentioned in the book “The Gardens of the Mansion is a Balcony of the Corfiot Nature”.
Love at first sight!
As years went by, the mansion was passed into another property, and in 2017 we came across it! Although when we saw it for the first time, the mansion was abandoned, we were fascinated by this and decided to buy it. We fell in love with the house at first sight! You can immediately recognize its worth and travel back in time to meet its history. Buying this charming mansion was a one-way path for us. We have named it “Villa 1870 Corfu” in honor of its historical building year.
The restoration
The purpose was to make Villa 1870 Corfu a family holiday villa while the guests felt like they were part of a fairytale! Therefore, the restoration of the house was made with respect for its history and architecture in order to maintain its unique character, while equipped with all the modern comforts of our time to ensure a luxurious and carefree stay. Each room has its own personality, with different colors and a stunning view of the blue Ionian Sea and the rich vegetation of the garden and the island.
The result is a paradise on earth! The interior design follows the original character of the house with heavy wooden beds, antique furniture, and carved and hand-painted wardrobes. The imposing mirror in the dining room (a replica of one of the Castle Althorp mirrors) and the bookshelf around the old fireplace fit perfectly into the living room and as for the large armchair…feel like a king!
The facilities
For a family, keeping up with children’s food even on holidays is not easy. So, as a family holiday villa, we wanted to meet that need. Although the house’s kitchen is full-equipped, we created a second one! A professional kitchen for the Chef, detached from the main house! The in-house exclusive chef is at your disposal to meet any dietary preferences that you and your family may have according to your schedule. A differentiated kids’ menu is also available.
The salted pool is heated during the cooler months so swimming is not only a summer privilege! It also has anti-slip systems and is ideal for exercise, and is safe for the youngest and the elder! A safe and spacious playground is available for the young guests! Family facilities are available. In addition, moving around the island is now easier than ever! A luxurious minivan and driver are available to take guests to and from the airport/port but also to explore the whole island.
The location
Villa 1870 Corfu is very close to the Old City of Corfu (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the town center, making it ideal for long walks, shopping, and evening entertainment while at the same time perfectly situated to explore the whole island of Corfu.
A villa created for families by a family
Our family includes children of different ages. So, we understand how difficult it can be for a family to organize the holidays. Children need to have fun while parents need to relax! It was this challenge that led us to create Villa 1870 Corfu. A family holiday villa that could meet all needs, combining the comforts of a 5-star hotel with the privacy of a beautiful and luxurious traditional mansion. There is nothing better for a family than to feel as comfortable as at home during holidays. Villa 1870 Corfu accommodates up to 16 people and is ideal for large families who want to have holidays together. Because the fun is even greater when you share it! Choosing to spend your holidays at our family villa, Villa 1870 Corfu, means that the only thing you have to do is just to prepare your suitcases! We will do the rest!”
With love and a holiday mood,
Nancy
