The majestic palace of Achilleion, in which the ancient myths of Hellas come to life

The charming island of Corfu (Corfu) is probably the most beautiful in Greece. This green corner is often called the home of all aristocrats, because there are resting people of royal blood and world celebrities. The island, around which there are various legends, is full of attractions.

Cognitive excursions to Corfu are incredibly in demand. Guests of the colorful island are attracted to ancient monasteries, defensive fortresses, the former residence of the Greek royal family, unusual museums. But the most famous architectural ensemble is the palace, glorifying the exploits of Achilles.

Queen, in love with the island

The palace of Achilleion, which has a rich history, attracts tourists with its unique beauty and special atmosphere. It was built at the end of the XIX century for the Empress Elizabeth of Austria, known as Sisi. Having a great love for the ancient architecture of the Queen of Austria-Hungary, relations with her mother-in-law did not go well. And she traveled a lot, just not to meet her. In 1861, a woman arrived on the wonderful island of Corfu, in the virgin nature of which she fell in love at first sight.

An independent queen, who did not recognize strict palace protocols, was not very fond of her surroundings. And the tragic deaths of children, father, sister, have greatly undermined her psyche. Therefore, the queen decides to leave her homeland. Elizabeth of Austria has always remembered about the island that struck her in the heart, so choosing the place of residence was not accidental.

A majestic building built in honor of Achilles

In 1889, the construction of the most famous landmark of Corfu - the most beautiful palace, next to which stretches a picturesque park, descends to the sea. The Empress, inspired by the exploits of the great warrior of the Trojan War of Achilles, gave the name of his residence in his honor. The Greek hero became the main theme of the three-story palace in which Elizabeth of Austria sought peace for her soul, wounded by losses and family dramas. She carefully thought out the appearance of the building and its interior. Unfortunately, fate did not measure out the queen of long life. A lover traveling was killed in 1898 in Geneva by a terrorist.

The new owner

Nine years after her death, the Kaiser of Germany, who visited Corfu, bought the palace of Sisi. The summer residence has become the center of European diplomacy. The German emperor, who lived regularly in the palace until 1914, arranged the gardens that had come into disrepair, made rearrangements, and placed in front of the front entrance a marble monument to the first hostess. The sad and touching figure of meek Sisi seems to represent her tragic fate.

History of the palace

In wartime, the majestic palace Achilleon was used as a hospital, and with the onset of peace there housed a school and an orphanage. For twenty years, the premise was leased to a German company, which restored the historical monument and turned it into a casino. Now the strict palace Achilleon, looking exactly like after the end of construction, belongs to the state. The museum and the restored park area are open to all visitors. From any point of the well-groomed tropical garden, an amazing view of the water smoothness of the Ionian Sea opens up.

Architectural Monument

The palace of Achilleion (Corfu) is of great interest to all lovers of architecture. The building, designed by the Italian architect R. Carit in neoclassical style, is decorated with columns, verandas and a huge number of statues. On the iron gate at the entrance there is an inscription with the name of the palace in Greek, and near the building there is an alley with lined slabs, which indicate important dates concerning Achilleion. Near the main building there is a small house built by Kaiser Wilhelm II for a personal garrison, and the Germans owning the room made it a hotel for casino guests.

What to see for tourists?

In the evergreen garden of a luxurious palace, tourists are greeted by statues - copies of ancient works on the theme of mythology, busts of ancient Greek philosophers. But the most valuable sculpture, perhaps, is the "wounded Achilles." It was she who was most cherished by the first owner of the residence, who ordered the work in Germany. The marble statue of the mortally wounded warrior of the Greek epic did not like Wilhelm II, who directed the sculptor Yu. Gotsu to create a new image of the hero - not dying, but complete superiority over his enemies. The huge bronze statue of Achilles the Victorious is imbued with the idea of powerful Germans, whose memory will remain in the centuries.

Inside the frescoed palace you can see the personal belongings of the queen and Wilhelm II, lifetime photographs, perfectly preserved furniture of previous owners and even jewelry, admire the canvases of artists on the themes of the ancient history of Greece. The most famous and valuable work of the museum is a picture depicting the triumph and valor of the Greek warrior: Achilles proudly rises on the chariot rushing by the walls of Troy, to which the body of the murdered Hector is tied. The entire canvas is on the main staircase. Near him always admire the visitors of the museum.

Revived ancient history

The palace of Achilleion, in which the atmosphere of the legends of Greece reigns, is a wonderful place for walks of all travelers. Magnificent views of the residence and picturesque landscapes - a wonderful setting for a quiet mental rest. Here, as if ancient history comes to life, it tells about sad events that happened once. Exciting excursions to Corfu are a great way to spend a vacation with pleasure and benefit. Traveling to a hospitable island and visiting a unique palace will leave in the memory an indelible impression.