Ghost Villages in Greece

Palia Peritheia is situated on the attractive north east corner of Corfu, and just below Mount Pantokratoras, the tallest mountain of the island. The ruined village is the oldest example of the original mountain villages of Corfu. According to records it was first inhabited in the mid-14th century but it is believed to have been inhabited many centuries before.

Most of the approximately 130 stone houses of Palia Peritheia, built according to Venetian prototype, are now fallen into ruins. The village which is not visible from afar was built during the pirate threats in the Mediterranean and its houses are well hidden on the slopes of Pantokratoras, at an altitude of 440 meters. Approaching the ghost-village, surrounded by lush vegetation, you will feel the atmosphere of the past and you will step back in time wandering among ruined mansions covered with wild grass and trees, narrow stone paved alleyways and numerous old churches. It is said that the village was named after the many churches surrounding it in a circular way: peri (around) + theia (holy)= Peritheia.

It is worth visiting the old school, a building of special architectural interest. In Foros, the main square of the village, you will find tavernas serving delicious home-cooked meals during weekends in the summer months. Palia Peritheia was permanently abandoned by its inhabitants during the 60s when the last families settled in the seaside, contemporary village. In recent years an effort has been made for the restoration of many of the houses since the owners are trying to bring the village back in life. The village which is best visited by car is 8 km away from Kassiopi and 50 km from the city of Corfu.