Corfu, also known as Kerkyra, is a Greek island located in the Ionian Sea, near the coast of Albania. Historically, Corfu has never been a part of Albania. Its history is deeply tied to Greece and various other Mediterranean powers throughout the centuries.

Historical Context

Ancient and Byzantine Periods:

• Greek Colonization: Corfu was colonized by the Greeks in the 8th century BCE. It became a significant city-state and played a crucial role in various Greek wars, including the Peloponnesian War.
• Roman and Byzantine Rule: After the fall of the Greek city-states, Corfu came under Roman control and later became part of the Byzantine Empire.

Venetian Period:

• Venetian Rule: From 1386 to 1797, Corfu was controlled by the Republic of Venice. This period is significant as the Venetians fortified the island extensively against Ottoman invasions, which helped preserve its Greek cultural heritage.

Ottoman and French Periods:

• Ottoman Sieges: Although the Ottomans attempted to capture Corfu multiple times, they were never successful, largely due to the Venetian defenses.
• French Rule: After the fall of the Venetian Republic, Corfu briefly came under French control from 1797 to 1799.

British Protectorate and Modern Greece:

• British Protectorate: From 1815 to 1864, Corfu was part of the United States of the Ionian Islands, a British protectorate.
• Union with Greece: In 1864, Corfu and the other Ionian Islands were ceded to Greece, becoming an integral part of the modern Greek state.

Relation to Albania

While Corfu is geographically close to Albania, it has always remained politically and culturally distinct from it. There have been interactions and exchanges between the two regions, especially considering their proximity and maritime connections, but Corfu has always been considered part of the Greek world.

Conclusion

Corfu has a rich and varied history involving Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, French, and British influences, but it has never been part of Albania. Its heritage is predominantly Greek, and it remains a significant part of Greece today.