The Monument of Menekrates in Corfu is an ancient circular tomb that was discovered in the Garitsa area, a bay of the city of Corfu. This impressive monument dates back to the 6th century B.C., which was a time of great prosperity for the ancient city. The burial inscription of Menekrates, which consists of ten verses, is in excellent condition and is considered one of the oldest in all of Greece.
The Monument of Menekrates was dedicated to the consul of Corfu in ancient Oiantheia, who died at sea. As a cenotaph, this circular tomb was built in his honor, and the inscription written in the Corinthian alphabet narrates his life and achievements.
This ancient monument was constructed by the municipality of the time as a way of paying tribute to Menekrates. It was built in a former cemetery of the ancient city, where a marble lion, now known as the “lion of Menekrates,” was also discovered. Initially, it was believed that the lion had adorned the Monument of Menekrates, but it is now displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Corfu.
The Monument of Menekrates is an important archaeological site in Corfu, and a must-see for history enthusiasts. It is a testament to the rich history of the ancient city and the significant role that Menekrates played in the political and social life of the time.