Wednesday 27.08.2025 ΚΕΡΚΥΡΑ

Commemoration of events of 1716

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commemorative event
26 Aug 2025 / 15:34

CORFU. The event was held at the Tenedos demi-bastion, just a few metres from the exact site of the historic battle.

On Monday, August 25, the Municipality of Central Corfu hosted a fascinating and visually engaging event that brought to life the historical events of the Ottoman siege of the island in 1716, with particular focus on its most significant episode: the Battle of Scarpone.

The event took place at the Tenedos demi-bastion, just a few metres from the exact site of the historic battle. Through a compelling mix of narration and audiovisual material, attendees were able to explore how a small group of defenders—mainly German- and Slavic-speaking troops, along with local fighters—under the command of Field Marshal Johann Matthias von der Schulenburg (1661–1747) successfully repelled the attacking Ottoman forces. Despite facing a numerically superior enemy, the defenders inflicted heavy losses and ultimately forced the Ottomans to retreat in disarray, an outcome traditionally attributed to the intervention of Saint Spyridon.

This decisive moment played a crucial role in the outcome of the entire siege, part of the Seventh Venetian–Ottoman War, and is considered one of the key factors that prevented the broader advance of Ottoman forces westward. The event also highlighted the courage and determination of the defenders, offering reflections on the enduring relevance of these historical lessons today. Adding to the atmosphere, excerpts from Antonio Vivaldi’s iconic oratorio Juditha Triumphans were performed.

The Monday event was directed by Stefanos Kypriotis, with videos and historical research led by Nikos Kokkalis and Theofilos Tzikas, respectively, based on archival material provided by researcher Spyros Goutsis. Narration was delivered by Natalia Kapodistria and Xenofon Rarakos, with texts edited by Aliki Katsarou. Musicians Nikos Metallinos (percussion) and Andreas Vidalis (cello) accompanied the presentation, while sound and lighting were managed by Antonis Hondroyannis and video editing by Yiannis Nodaras. The event was co-organised by the Corfu Ephorate of Antiquities and the Regional Association of Ionian Islands Municipalities (PEDIN).

 

GERASIMOS MARTINIS

Photos: Enimerosi

Main photo: Stamatis Katapodis