Mathraki

Mathraki (Greek: Μαθράκι, older form: Μαθράκιον) is an island and a former community of the Ionian Islands, Greece. It is belongs to Diapontia Islands. Since the 2011 local government reform it is part of the municipality Corfu, of which it is a municipal unit. Population 329 (2011). Mathraki is a 45-minute boat ride off the coast of Corfu (4 NM from Cape Arilas). It has three restaurants that double as general stores, villas and "rooms to let". Mathraki is a quiet island that manages to stay clear of tourists except for the occasional hikers that brave the rocky coastline. The municipal unit includes the three nearby islets Diakopo, Diaplo and Tracheia.

History

Mathraki was inhabited during last centuries when residents from nearby island Othonoi were settled in the small island. The origin of its name is unknown. According to a popular tradition its name derives from the name anthrakia, because in the past the island had been burnt. It became part of Greece in 1864, when the Ionian islands conceded to Greece from British. Today is a serene and tranquil place for holidays.