The ensemble of the fortifications and the Old Town of Corfu is located in a strategic location at the entrance to the Adriatic Sea. From the 15th century, Corfu was under Venetian rule for some four centuries, then passing to French, British and Greek governments. Corfu was a well thought of example of fortification engineering, designed by the architect Sanmicheli, and it proved its worth through practical warfare. Corfu has its specific identity, which is reflected in the design of its system of fortification and in its neo-classical building stock. The authenticity and integrity of the urban fabric are primarily those of a neo-classical town.