The Magnificent Achillion Palace

Tucked away in the heart of Gastouri Village, the Achillion Palace is truly a remarkable architectural and artistic structure well-worth your visit! The elaborate palace was built by the Empress of Austria, known to all as Sissy. Sissy was obsessed with Corfu and the ancient Greek Gods of mythology. Her favourite Greek God was Achilles, which is the reason the classical palace was named after him.

Besides being a masterpiece of classical architecture, the landscaped gardens are also a major attraction as they are decorated with numerous sculptures and statues of Greek gods and goddesses making it a truly inspiring setting.

After Sissy’s tragic assassination in 1898, the palace was abandoned till Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany purchased it in 1907 as his summer retreat. Ideally located on the coastline of the island, Kaiser used to tie his yacht on the jetty below and set off on his sea cruises.

The Palace of Achillion has been one of the top tourist attractions of the island. It is especially admired for its classical architecture which is truly a work of art. The blossoming gardens of the palace are equally magnificent. Visitors tend to marvel at the extraordinary mural found at the reception area of the palace. The artistic mural depicts Achilles carrying Hector’s lifeless body. The Palace also gained immense popularity after the famed James Bond movie, “For Your Eyes Only” was shot there.