Achilleion Palace is located upon a hill past the traditional Corfu village of Gastouri. A strange sense of awe overwhelms anyone that gazes over the imposing form of the Palace which dominates the area with its presence, residing between the cypress trees and other exotic plants and flowers which surround it.
The palace was built for the Empress Elisabeth and Emperor William II of Austria purchased it after her untimely death. Upon entering the palace you will be amazed by the beautiful gardens that surround it and the invaluable pieces of art such as the ancient Greek statues of Zeus and Era and other smaller statues and sculptures.
The palace ceilings and wall paintings commissioned by Elizabeth reveal the Empress’ cultivated spirit and are now considered priceless. The palace gardens are decorated with further examples of neoclassical art such as the Peristile of the Muses and the Achilleion trademark statue of the Dying Achilles as he tries to remove the spear from his ankle.
As we travel across to Paleokastritsa on the west coast you are able to catch your breath whilst you take in images of central Corfu’s countryside. As we pass through Perama you shall be able to see Pontikonisi Island and a glimpse of Pelekas Village further inland as we head towards the second half of this excursion.
