Description of the attraction
About 10 km south of the city of Kerkyra, on the top of a picturesque hill in the village of Gasturi, there is the famous Achillion Palace - one of the most interesting architectural landmarks of Corfu.
The Achillion Palace was built in 1890-91. specially for Elizabeth of Bavaria (also known as Princess Sisi), wife of the Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph I. Fascinated by the island of Corfu and considered it one of the best corners on earth, Empress Elizabeth considered it an ideal place for her future residence. It is worth noting that Elizabeth had a particular weakness for Greek culture and history, so it is not surprising that the main motive for the design of the residence was ancient Greek mythology and one of its favorite characters in the heroic epic - Achilles, in honor of whom, in fact, the palace got its name. The palace was designed by the talented Italian architect Rafael Caritto. The sculptural decoration was entrusted to the German sculptor Ernst Geter.
At the beginning of the 20th century, after the death of Elizabeth, the Achillion Palace was acquired by the Kaiser of the German Empire Wilhelm II. During the First World War, a hospital was located in the palace, and after its end, Achillion, in accordance with the Treaty of Versailles, became the property of the Greek state. During the Second World War, the Nazis established their headquarters in the palace. After the war, the palace was officially transferred to the Greek Tourism Organization. From 1962 to 1983, a casino was located on the upper floor of the palace. It was here in 1981 that some scenes of the twelfth film about the British super agent James Bond - "For Your Eyes Only" were filmed. In 1994, the European Council summit took place in Achillion.
Today Achillion is open to visitors and is one of the most popular attractions in Corfu. You will have a lot of pleasure strolling through the magnificent landscaped garden, which is decorated with many beautiful sculptures (among which is Ernst Geter's "Dying Achilles", 1884), and enjoying the excellent landscapes and breathtaking panoramic views. You will also be able to appreciate the palace itself - a very impressive, neoclassical structure. Its interior is simply striking in its luxury - exquisite murals, a wide marble staircase, at the foot of which there are statues of Zeus and Hera, original carved furniture, a fireplace made of black Italian marble and much more. The small Catholic chapel and the private office of William II undoubtedly deserve special attention. It is also worth taking a look at the so-called "Perestyle of the Muses".
