Achilleion Museum

About

The Achilleion in Corfu is a storied mountain‑top palace turned museum, perched in the village of Gastouri just ten kilometres south of the island’s capital. Built in 1888 at the behest of Austrian Empress Elisabeth, affectionately known as "Sisi", the structure was designed by Italian architect Raffaele Caritto to emulate an ancient Phaeacian palace, complete with Doric columns and sweeping gardens that overlook Corfu Town and the Ionian Sea. Today, the property functions under the management of the Hellenic Tourism Development Company and houses a permanent exhibition celebrating the life and patronage of Queen Elisabeth, as well as the later German Kaiser Wilhelm II, who owned the palace from 1907 onwards. Visitors can stroll through the richly furnished gardens, marvel at statues such as the imposing Triumph of Achilles, and glimpse the luxurious interiors that once hosted European royalty and dignitaries. Beyond its architectural allure, the Achilleion has played a role in popular culture, notably serving as a filming location for the James‑Bond film "For Your Eyes Only". The site also serves as a testament to the island’s multicultural history, having been home to a casino in the 1960s and later returned to cultural use. Open daily from 08:00 to 16:00, the museum welcomes travelers who wish to explore a unique fusion of Neoclassical design, myth‑inspired art, and the enduring heritage of Corfu’s royal connections.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes