The Museum of Asian Art in Corfu stands as a unique cultural beacon, not only for the island but for all of Greece. Housed in the grand Palace of St. Michael and St. George, this museum is the only institution in Greece dedicated exclusively to the art and antiquities of Asia. With an extraordinary collection spanning China, Japan, India, Southeast Asia, and beyond, the Museum of Asian Art offers visitors a rare journey through centuries of Eastern creativity, spirituality, and craftsmanship. Whether you are an art lover, a history buff, or a curious traveler, this museum is a must-visit destination in Corfu Town, promising a captivating experience for all ages.
History of Museum of Asian Art
The Museum of Asian Art was founded in 1927, initially as the Museum of Sino-Japanese Art, following the donation of an impressive collection by Gregorios Manos, a Greek ambassador and passionate collector. Manos amassed around 9,500 Chinese, Japanese, and Korean artifacts during his diplomatic postings, purchasing them at auctions in Vienna and Paris. His vision was to create a museum that would introduce the wonders of Asian art to Greece.
The museum’s scope broadened significantly with subsequent donations, most notably from N. Chatzivasileiou, who contributed works from India, Pakistan, Tibet, Siam, and Southeast Asia. This expansion led to the museum’s renaming as the Museum of Asian Art. Today, the collection boasts more than 15,000 artifacts, making it one of the most significant Asian art collections in Europe.
The museum is housed in the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, a neoclassical masterpiece built between 1819 and 1824 by British architect Sir George Whitmore. The palace itself is a historical landmark, having served as the residence of the British High Commissioners and, later, the Greek royal family.
Attractions at Museum of Asian Art
Chinese Collection: Featuring over 3,500 objects, this collection includes ancient ceramics, porcelain, jade carvings, burial artifacts, and imperial items from dynasties such as Chang, Han, Tang, Ming, and Qing. The Chinese porcelain, in particular, is a major highlight, with some pieces dating back to 1200 BC.
Japanese Collection: Visitors can admire samurai armor, swords, Noh and Kabuki theater masks, byobu (painted folding screens), and exquisite ceramics. The museum also boasts a renowned collection of Japanese woodblock prints (ukiyo-e) and tea ceremony utensils, immersing visitors in the aesthetics of the Edo period.
Indian and Southeast Asian Art: The museum houses sculptures, bronzes, and ritual objects from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Tibet, Cambodia, and Thailand. Of special note is the Gandhara collection, which features Greco-Buddhist sculptures that reflect the cultural fusion resulting from Alexander the Great’s influence in the region.
Buddhist Art: Spanning from ancient Gandhara to contemporary Tibetan thangkas, the Buddhist art collection includes stone and brass Buddha heads, painted banners, and ritual objects, offering a spiritual journey across Asia.
Islamic and Central Asian Art: Rugs, textiles, and decorative arts from Central Asia and the Islamic world round out the collection, showcasing the diversity and interconnectedness of Asian cultures.
Palace Rooms: The museum’s setting is as impressive as its collections. Visitors can explore the Ionian Senate Hall, the throne room, the round ballroom, and the dining room adorned with the medals of the Chivalric Order of St. Michael and St. George.
Temporary Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts special exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events, adding fresh perspectives and new experiences to each visit.
Things to Do at Museum of Asian Art
Explore the Galleries: Wander through fifteen beautifully curated rooms, each offering a different facet of Asian art and history.
Attend Special Exhibitions: Check the museum’s schedule for rotating exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events that delve deeper into specific themes or regions.
Educational Programs: Families and school groups can participate in interactive workshops and educational activities designed to engage visitors of all ages.
Photography: The palace’s grand interiors and the exquisite artifacts make for memorable photographs (check for any restrictions in certain galleries).
Relax in the Palace Gardens: Enjoy a stroll through the palace gardens, which offer stunning views of the sea and Corfu Town.
Museum of Asian Art – Entry Eligibility and Open Timings
The museum is typically open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM during the summer season (hours may be shorter in winter; always check the official website or local listings for current schedules). The museum is closed on Mondays and certain public holidays.
How Long to Spend at Museum of Asian Art
Most visitors spend between 1.5 to 3 hours exploring the museum, depending on their interest in the collections and participation in any special exhibitions or programs. Art enthusiasts and history lovers may wish to spend even longer to fully appreciate the breadth and depth of the displays.
How to Get There
By Bus: Corfu’s main bus terminal is about a 10-minute walk from the museum. Local blue buses (Line 2) connect the port and airport to the city center, with frequent departures throughout the day.
By Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout Corfu Town and at the port and airport. The ride from the port to the museum is about 2.5 km and takes 5–10 minutes.
By Car: If you are driving, parking is available in public lots nearby, though spaces can be limited during peak tourist seasons.
By Foot: The museum is within easy walking distance from Spianada Square, the Liston Promenade, and other major attractions in Corfu Town.
By Boat: Visitors arriving by cruise ship or ferry can reach the museum in about 20–25 minutes on foot from the port, or by a short taxi or bus ride.
Eateries Nearby Museum of Asian Art
Corfu Town is renowned for its vibrant café and dining scene. Here are six great options within walking distance of the museum:
Aegli Restaurant: Located on the Liston, Aegli offers Greek and Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant setting.
Pane e Souvlaki: A popular spot for quick and delicious Greek street food, just steps from Spianada Square.
Rex Restaurant: One of Corfu’s oldest restaurants, serving traditional Corfiot dishes in a historic atmosphere.
Cafe Bristol: A stylish café perfect for coffee, pastries, or a light lunch.
Liston Cafe: Ideal for breakfast or an evening drink, with views of the bustling promenade.
Rosmarino: An Italian trattoria offering fresh pasta and wood-fired pizzas, popular with locals and visitors alike.
Other Attractions Nearby Museum of Asian Art
Spianada Square: Greece’s largest square, perfect for a stroll or relaxing at a café.
Old Fortress: A Venetian fortress with breathtaking views of Corfu Town and the Ionian Sea.
Saint Spyridon Church: Home to the relics of Corfu’s patron saint, a short walk from the museum.
Corfu Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, with narrow alleys, Venetian mansions, and vibrant shops.
Archaeological Museum of Corfu: Showcasing ancient Greek artifacts and the island’s rich history.
The Museum of Asian Art in Corfu, also known as the National Museum of Asian Arts, is a remarkable institution dedicated to showcasing the rich and diverse cultures of Asia. Established in 1928, it is the only museum in Greece and one of the few in Europe entirely dedicated to Asian art and culture. Its impressive collection spans centuries, featuring artifacts from China, Japan, India, Korea, and Southeast Asia, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and art lovers.
Housed in the stunning Palace of St. Michael and St. George, the Museum of Asian Art offers a fascinating journey through ancient civilizations. The collection includes exquisite porcelain, rare manuscripts, intricate sculptures, and stunning paintings that highlight the artistic achievements of Asian cultures. Visitors can also explore exhibits dedicated to the Asia Society Museum, the Pacific Asia Museum, and the USC Pacific Asia Museum, providing a comprehensive look at Asian history and heritage.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional art, fascinated by ancient cultures, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, the Asian Museum in Corfu promises an unforgettable journey through the history and art of the East.