Sissi’s legendary beauty and people-loving nature disguise how deeply unhappy she truly was, as Austro-Hungarian Empress. She sought refuge and peace of mind, away from the crowds, at her Achilleion Palace in Corfu.
Sissi’s legendary beauty and people-loving nature disguise how deeply unhappy she truly was, as Austro-Hungarian Empress. She sought refuge and peace of mind, away from the crowds, at her Achilleion Palace in Corfu.
Sissi’s legendary beauty and people-loving nature disguise how deeply unhappy she truly was, as Austro-Hungarian Empress. She sought refuge and peace of mind, away from the crowds, at her Achilleion Palace in Corfu. She personally chose the location atop Gastouri traditional village, surrounded by beautiful views of the North and South of the island, as well as the Channel separating it from the mainland, amongst green hills and a forest that reaches the coastline. She named it Achilleion, from the Greek Mythological Hero of Troy who she identified with, because he enjoyed fame and glory as a semi-God, but also suffered pain as a human.
The neoclassical architecture of the building as well as the interior design and decorative objects, all respond to Sissi’s love of Ancient Greece, and were later embellished by the second owner of the palace, Emperor Wilhelm II of Germany, who was an equally big lover of Greece and the Island of Corfu. Though devoid of most furniture, visiting the palace (ideally with a guide or guide book), is a fascinating journey through Ancient Greek Mythology, with all its mischief, glory and intrigue. It is also a lovely stop for nature lovers, as the Emperor added many exotic flowers to the terraced gardens.
You may like to combine your visit to Achilleion Palace with Koum Kouat liquor tasting at the shop just opposite the entrance, or a refreshment/lunch at the panoramic terraced restaurant just beyond the palace exit. Gastouri village merits a little walk around. You can then continue East to Benitses and the sandy beaches in the South of the island, or enjoy a day at the West Coast beaches of Corfu.