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Corfu Museum of Asian Art: A Mediterranean Window to Asia

Discover a treasure trove of Asian art in Corfu's stunning Palace of St. Michael and St. George, a unique cultural experience in the heart of the Mediterranean.

4.6

Housed in the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, the Corfu Museum of Asian Art offers a captivating journey through Asian cultures. Founded in 1927, the museum boasts a diverse collection spanning centuries and continents, showcasing Chinese porcelain, Japanese woodblock prints, Korean ceramics, and Indian textiles. It's a unique cultural hub fostering understanding between Greece and Asia.

A brief summary to Corfu Museum of Asian Art

  • Monday 8 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Consider joining a guided tour to deepen your understanding of the artwork and its cultural context.
  • Photography is allowed in most areas, but flash photography is not permitted.
  • The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and a lift for access to all exhibition spaces.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Spianada Square and explore other nearby attractions like the Old Fortress.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Museum of Asian Art is centrally located in Corfu Town, within the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, north of Spianada Square. From most points in Corfu Town, including the port and the main bus station at San Rocco Square, it is easily accessible on foot. Simply head towards Spianada Square, and you'll find the Palace on its northern edge. Allow 15-20 minutes walking time from the bus station.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by public transport, take a Blue Bus (Corfu Town bus) to San Rocco Square, the main bus terminal. From there, it's a short walk to the Museum of Asian Art. Bus tickets cost between €1.10 and €1.80 depending on the route, and can be purchased at kiosks or from the driver. A day ticket is available for €5. Alternatively, bus No. 2 (Mantouki-Kanoni) stops near the museum.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Corfu Town. Taxi ranks can be found at the airport, port, and several locations in the town. A taxi ride from Corfu Airport to Corfu Town typically costs between €15 and €20 and takes around 10 minutes. A taxi from other locations in Corfu Town to the Museum of Asian Art should cost no more than €10, depending on the distance. Be sure the driver resets the taximeter to the base fare of €3.60.

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Discover more about Corfu Museum of Asian Art

The Corfu Museum of Asian Art, the only museum in Greece dedicated to Asian art, is located within the Palace of St. Michael and St. George in Corfu Town. This imposing neoclassical building, constructed between 1819 and 1824 by the British, initially served as the residence of the British High Commissioners of the Ionian Islands. The palace itself is a sight to behold, designed by British architect George Whitmore in the Greek Revival and neoclassical style, and built with limestone imported from Malta. Its architecture reflects the historical influences of British rule on the island. The museum's collection originated with the donation of Gregorios Manos, a Greek ambassador who amassed approximately 9,500 Chinese, Korean, and Japanese artifacts. Over time, the museum's holdings expanded through further donations, now encompassing over 11,000 objects dating from the 11th century BC to modern times. Visitors can admire a wide array of art forms, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, wood carvings, and textiles. Highlights include Chinese ceramics, Japanese art (such as samurai armor and Noh theatre masks), and Korean art. A unique Greek-Buddhistic collection of sculptures from Gadara (Pakistan), dating from the 1st-5th centuries A.D., reveals the influence of Greek culture following Alexander the Great's presence in the region. The museum is more than just a repository of art; it's a cultural center that promotes understanding and dialogue between different cultures. It organizes educational programs, workshops, and lectures to foster cultural exchange. The well-preserved rooms of the Palace, adorned with ornate furniture and decorations from the British period, add to the museum's allure. The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and a lift, and offers audio guides with Braille captions for visitors with sight problems.

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