The Pirate History of Agios Georgios : Here’s What Happened

Agios Georgios holds a special place in the hearts of the faithful, especially in Corfu. His legacy is tied to historical struggles in the 16th, 17th, and 20th centuries from Turkish invaders and pirates to the German occupation.

One of the earliest references to Agios Georgios of Argyrades in Gialiskari  is found in a monk’s will dated 1549 AD.

In Corfu, the people of Argyrades celebrate his feast day around the historic countryside church near the beach, close to the site known as “Kryo to Nero,” where local tradition places the pirate abduction of Giannakis around 1725.

Milestones in the History of the Church of Agios Georgios

1537 A.D.

During the Ottoman siege of Corfu, raiders passing through the southern part of the island caused widespread destruction plundering, massacres, and the abduction of locals. Among the victims was the original Church of Saint George, which appears to have been completely destroyed, according to contemporary accounts such as the 1549 will of a hieromonk.

1944 A.D.

During the German occupation in World War II, the historic church was razed to its foundations by enemy bombings, despite there being no provocation or military objective in the area.

1948 A.D. – Rebirth

On February 10, 1948, the feast day of Saint Charalambos, devout Christians from the area through their own contributions and voluntary labor rebuilt the Church of Saint George on the very same site where it had stood for centuries.

1991 A.D.

The new seaside settlement was officially established and named after the historic church: Agios Georgios Argyrades. Today, it is a vibrant and growing destination, known for its tourism and strong cultural identity.

Pirates at St. George: The Abduction of Giannakis

1725  A.D

In 1725, down by the church of Saint George Argirades  (formerly Agios Giorgios Gialiskari ), in the village of Argyrades, Giannakis  husband of Miloula  was cutting reeds by the sea. Suddenly, a "fousta barberiki"  a fast pirate ship  appeared on the horizon. The pirates landed silently and seized him before he could react. Some say he was killed, others that he was taken as a slave.

Since then, the people of the village remember the event as a great tragedy, and Giannakis’ story became a folk song that is still sung to this day.

On Saint George’s feast day, locals gather at the chapel and sing the traditional song ‘Kato ston Ai Giorgi’, celebrating the village’s deep roots and past.

During the celebration, young women in traditional dress perform a circle dance to the folk song "Kato ston Ai-Giorgi", following a distinct step pattern: three steps to the right, one forward, one back, and one to the left.

Lyrics (Greeklish):

🎶

Kato ston Ai-Giorgi, sto “Kryo to Nero”

skotosan ton Giannaki, ton monahoyiio.

Tourkoi ton eskotosan, Romioi ton klaigane,

ta dyo tou ta ksadelfia ton egirevane.

Pou’sai more Giannaki na pame spiti mas

ti klaiei i adelfi mas, klaiei ki i nyfi mas...

lala, lala, lala, lala, lala... 🎶

• This photograph is drawn from the pages of Porphyrios Pandis' book, Κάτω στον Άγιο Γεώργιο στο Γιαλισκάρι, Αργυράδες, Κέρκυρα.

🏖️ Nature & Beach

Agios Georgios boasts one of the longest sandy beaches in Corfu (8–10 km), with shallow, warm waters. Some parts are organized with sunbeds and bars, while others remain untouched and wild. To the north lies Lake Korission, a protected Natura 2000 site with sand dunes, rare cedar forests, and migratory birds.

🕍 In summary, Agios Georgios Argyrades is a beautiful, peaceful resort with a rich past, shaped by the island's turbulent encounters with pirates and foreign invaders. Today, it offers relaxing beach holidays, opportunities to explore unspoiled nature, and a chance to connect with the deep-rooted traditions of southern Corfu.

*These historical events are documented in the book by Porphyrios Pandis, titled «Κάτω στον Άγιο Γεώργιο στο Γιαλισκάρι, Αργυράδες, Κέρκυρα» .

*These images were created using AI.