Achilleion Palace | Corfu

The Achilleion Palace is a historic palace located in Gastouri, a village on the island of Corfu, Greece. Built in the late 19th century, the palace is known for its grand architecture, stunning gardens, and its connection to Empress Elisabeth of Austria, also known as Sisi, who commissioned its construction. The Achilleion Palace is one of Corfu’s most famous landmarks and offers insight into the island’s rich history and royal connections.

Key Features of Achilleion Palace:

Historical Background:

• The Achilleion Palace was commissioned by Empress Elisabeth of Austria in 1890. Sisi, a beloved but tragic figure in European royal history, was seeking a peaceful retreat from the stresses of court life in Vienna. She was particularly drawn to Corfu due to its natural beauty and mild climate.
• The palace was designed by the German architect Karl Ludwig and was inspired by classical Greek themes, especially the legend of Achilles, the hero of the Trojan War. This theme is evident throughout the palace, from its architecture to its artwork.
• Sisi’s residence at Achilleion was brief. After her assassination in 1898, the palace was passed into the hands of the German Kaiser Wilhelm II, who made several additions to the palace, including the construction of a large statue of Achilles.

Architecture:

• The palace combines neoclassical, Venetian, and Greek Revival architectural styles, which were fashionable in Europe at the time. Its design includes spacious rooms, balconies, and arches, blending both Italian and Greek influences.
• The building itself is rectangular, with large windows, and was built around an open courtyard. The interior is adorned with elegant frescoes, antique furniture, and a variety of decorative items that evoke a regal atmosphere.
• The palace features an elegant portico, columns, and beautifully decorated rooms. One of the most distinctive aspects of the architecture is the incorporation of Greek mythology into the palace’s design, particularly the extensive use of sculptures and murals that celebrate the life of Achilles.

The Gardens:

• The gardens of the Achilleion Palace are one of its most beautiful features. They were designed to reflect Sisi's love of nature and her desire for tranquility. The palace is surrounded by lush greenery, including cypress trees, bougainvillea, roses, and palm trees.
• The gardens are terraced and lead to different areas, each offering spectacular views of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding landscape. The gardens are designed in a formal style, with wide paths, fountains, and sculptural elements.
• One of the key features of the garden is the statue of Achilles, a massive sculpture of the Greek hero in the final moments of his life, dying from a wound to his heel. The statue is located in the garden and remains one of the most famous pieces of art in the palace.
• The flower gardens and the palm grove add to the peaceful and serene atmosphere, making it an ideal place for visitors to relax and explore.

Notable Artworks:

• The interior of Achilleion Palace is filled with beautiful works of art, many of which are related to Greek mythology. The most prominent of these is the "Triumph of Achilles", a fresco by the artist Franz Xaver Wagenschön, which adorns the main hall of the palace. The fresco depicts Achilles’ heroic deeds and his divine status in Greek mythology.
• The statue of Achilles in the garden is another striking feature, designed by the German sculptor Franz Melnitzky. The statue shows Achilles in a dramatic and heroic pose, reflecting the theme of heroism that runs throughout the palace.

The Achilleion as a Historical Site:

• After Sisi’s death, the palace was sold to Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany in 1907. The Kaiser made several modifications to the palace, including the addition of the famous Achilles statue in the garden and further decoration of the palace interior.
• During World War I, the palace was used by the French and later the British army as a military hospital.
• In 1962, the palace was sold to the Greek government and has since been transformed into a museum, open to the public. The palace is now a major tourist attraction, and visitors can explore both the interior and the gardens, learning about the palace’s royal history and the legend of Achilles.

Key Rooms and Areas to Visit:

• The Main Hall: The central part of the palace, which houses the "Triumph of Achilles" fresco, as well as other mythological murals and sculptures.
• The Throne Room: A majestic room where Sisi held court. It is adorned with fine furnishings and has a large fireplace and grand windows that offer a view of the surrounding grounds.
• The Dining Room: A formal room where Empress Elisabeth would have entertained guests. It features beautiful decorations and elegant furniture.
• The Imperial Bedroom: The room where Sisi would have rested during her stay. The bedroom retains some of its original furnishings and decorations, providing insight into her personal life.
• The Garden: The beautifully landscaped garden is a highlight of the palace, featuring a wide array of flowers and trees, and providing stunning views of Corfu.

Visiting the Achilleion Palace:

• The Achilleion Palace is located about 10 km from Corfu Town, in the village of Gastouri. The palace is easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transport.
• The palace is open to visitors year-round, and there is an entrance fee to explore the building and grounds. The museum offers detailed information about the palace’s history, the life of Empress Elisabeth, and the significance of the art and architecture within the palace.
• The gardens are a serene place to walk, and visitors can enjoy the magnificent views of the Ionian Sea, the island of Pontikonisi, and the surrounding hills.
• There are also souvenir shops and cafes near the entrance, where visitors can purchase local products or take a break.

Conclusion:

The Achilleion Palace is a magnificent historic landmark that offers a fascinating blend of royal history, art, and mythology. From the stunning frescoes and sculptures celebrating Greek heroism to the peaceful and beautifully landscaped gardens, the palace is a must-visit for anyone interested in Corfu’s royal past and its artistic heritage. The palace’s connection to Empress Elisabeth of Austria, as well as its later use by Kaiser Wilhelm II, makes it a unique site on the island, with a rich and diverse history that continues to captivate visitors today.