About 10 kilometres south of the town of Kerkyra, on top of a picturesque hill in the village of Gastouri, lies the famous Achillion Palace, one of the most interesting architectural sights of Corfu.
Achillion Palace was built in 1890-91 especially for Elisabeth of Bavaria (also known as Princess Sisi), wife of the Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph I. Fascinated by the island of Corfu and considering it one of the finest places on earth, Empress Elisabeth felt that it was the 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 motif in the design of the residence was Greek mythology and one of her favourite characters from the heroic epic, Achilles, in honour of whom the palace was named. The palace was designed by the talented Italian architect Rafael Caritto. The sculptural design was entrusted to the German sculptor Ernst Goetter.
In the early 20th century, after Elizabeth's death, the Achillion Palace was acquired by Kaiser Wilhelm II of the German Empire. During World War I, the palace was used as a hospital, and at the end of the war, the Achillion became the property of the Greek state, in accordance with the Treaty of Versailles. During World War II, the palace became the headquarters of the Nazis. After the war, the palace was officially handed over to the Greek Tourist Organisation. From 1962 to 1983, the top floor of the palace housed a casino. It was here that some scenes of the twelfth film about the British superagent James Bond, For Your Eyes Only, were shot in 1981. In 1994, the European Council Summit was held in Achillion.
Today, Achillion is open to visitors and is one of Corfu's most popular attractions. You will have a lot of fun strolling through the magnificent landscaped garden, which is decorated with many beautiful sculptures (including Ernst Heter's "Dying Achilles", 1884) and enjoying the excellent scenery and breathtaking panoramic views. You will also be able to appreciate the palace itself, a very impressive neoclassical structure. Its interior is simply amazing in its luxury - exquisite wall paintings, a wide marble staircase, at the foot of which rise statues of Zeus and Hera, original carved furniture, fireplace of black Italian marble and much more. The small Catholic chapel and the private study of Wilhelm II deserve special attention. The so-called "Perestil of the Muses" is also worth a look.
