The islet of Vido was used as a quarantine zone and infirmary, earning the nickname 'Island of Death' due to the high mortality rate from typhus and exhaustion.
The phrase 'Blue Grave' originates from a poem written by Milutin Bojić, who witnessed the burials at sea.
The mausoleum architecture incorporates Byzantine design elements to reflect the cultural heritage of the fallen soldiers.
Before the mausoleum was built, the remains were scattered in over 20 different locations across the islet of Vido and Corfu.
The project was fully funded by the Kingdom of Yugoslavia to ensure a permanent resting place for the Serbian troops.
The WWI Serbian Soldiers Mausoleum is located on the islet of Vido, accessible via a short boat crossing from the main harbor of Corfu. It honors the thousands of Serbian soldiers who perished on the island after retreating through Albania during the winter of 1915-1916. The structure, designed by architect Nikola Krasnov, was completed in 1938 to house the remains of soldiers exhumed from makeshift graves across the island. The ossuary contains the bones of 1,232 soldiers, while many others are buried in the surrounding sea, a stretch of water historically referred to as the 'Blue Grave.' The site functions as a memorial for the Serbian Army's 'Golgotha,' marking the period when the island served as a sanctuary for the exiled Serbian government and military. The mausoleum is maintained as a place of historical reflection, preserving a significant chapter of Balkan history on Greek soil.
The front entrance of the mausoleum provides a direct, symmetrical view of the architectural details.
Bring a hat and sunscreen as there is very little shade on the walking paths between the dock and the mausoleum.
Check the boat schedule carefully before departing the mainland, as trips are infrequent and weather-dependent.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for the trek from the island's boat pier to the memorial site.
Do not treat the visit as a casual beach trip, as this is a solemn memorial site.
The boat service to Vido island operates primarily during the warmer months and may be suspended during winter or periods of high winds.
Maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor suitable for a military burial site; avoid loud conversations.
