Siege of Corfu (1716): What Happened
In the summer of 1716, a large Ottoman army and fleet besieged Corfu, the most important Venetian possession in the Ionian Sea and the gateway to the Adriatic. After retaking the Peloponnese from Venice in 1715, the Ottomans hoped to capture Corfu and threaten Italy itself. Around 30,000 Ottoman troops landed on the island in July and attacked the fortifications around Corfu Town. The defense was organized by the German general Johann Matthias von der Schulenburg, who had entered Venetian service. His small force of Venetian troops, mercenaries and local Corfiots held the walls against weeks of bombardment and fierce assaults. In mid-August, the Ottomans launched a massive final attack, which was repelled after heavy fighting. Soon after, a violent storm struck, damaging the Ottoman camp and ships. News of an Austrian victory over the Ottomans at Petrovaradin also arrived. The Ottomans abandoned the siege and withdrew. Corfiots credited their deliverance to their patron saint, Spyridon, and a procession in his honor still commemorates the event each August. A statue of Schulenburg stands in Corfu today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Siege of Corfu in 1716?
In the summer of 1716, a large Ottoman army and fleet besieged Corfu, the most important Venetian possession in the Ionian Sea. The siege failed.
Who defended Corfu in 1716?
The defense was organized by the German general Johann Matthias von der Schulenburg, leading Venetian troops, mercenaries and local Corfiots.
How did the Siege of Corfu end?
After a massive final assault was repelled in August, a violent storm struck the Ottoman camp. News of an Austrian victory at Petrovaradin also arrived, and the Ottomans withdrew.
How does Corfu celebrate its deliverance?
Corfiots credited their patron saint, Saint Spyridon, with saving the island. A procession in his honor still commemorates the event every August.
Is there a statue of Schulenburg in Corfu?
Yes. A statue of Schulenburg stands outside the Old Fortress in Corfu Town, erected by Venice in his lifetime to honor his defense of the island.
