Lefkimi is the largest town and the center of southern Corfu. The area of Lefkimi is known since ancient times because of the famous naval battle between the Corinthians and the Athenians during the Peloponnesian War that took place in its straits. In the Middle Ages, it was named Alechimmo, from which its alternative name, "Alefki", remains till today. There are several historic monasteries and churches in the vicinity, such as the monastery of "Kyra ton Angelon" dating from 1698. The relics of Saint Arsenios, the patron saint of Corfu for centuries, are kept in the local church of St Arsenios.