The "beautiful and rich land" of Homer is a paradise of poetic landscapes and culture. Its strategic position made the island vulnerable to foreign conquestors. As a result, a blend of the Venetian, British and French cultures was integrated to the Greek identity. These western influences are prominent in the island's architecture. The town seems like a fresco painting that has come to life. Liston's elegant arcades hang over the marble paved square where the locals gather for a cup of coffee or a drink. Corfu also offers vast options for entertainment, with candlelit restaurants, romantic bars and vibrant nightclubs covering all tastes and styles.