Diapontia Islands, Island group in Corfu Municipality, Greece
The Diapontia Islands comprise three inhabited islands—Othoni, Ereikoussa, and Mathraki—plus several smaller rocky outcrops scattered across the Adriatic Sea. They sit northwest of Corfu and maintain a remote, quiet character with limited services and simple facilities for visitors.
After the Battle of Nafpaktos in 1571, residents fleeing occupied territories sought refuge on these islands, leading to significant population growth. This wave of migration fundamentally shaped the settlements and community structure that developed across the islands.
The islanders built their lives around the sea and seafaring traditions that shaped their daily routines and family bonds. These maritime practices remain visible today in how people live and work on the islands.
Regular boat services from Corfu connect the islands to the mainland, with crossings taking around one hour to the nearest island. Since facilities and services are limited, visitors should plan ahead and check conditions before traveling, as schedules can be affected by weather.
The British submarine Proteus sank near Othoni in 1940 during a naval encounter with Italian forces during World War II. A memorial established in 2015 commemorates this event and serves as a reminder of the wartime history surrounding the islands.
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