When one finds a villa in Greece, they are likely to be looking forward to seeking out the rich history of the country - its incredible ruins, the remarkable museums, and the endless archaeological finds that have been discovered in sites all over Greece. However, if you are planning on staying in a vacation rental in the Ionian Islands, we also recommend heading to Corfu to see the island and its native history as well as some amazing Asian antiquities! The museum there is the only one in Greece that is exclusively dedicated to Asian art and antiquity so while Corfu has lots of wonderful local history to dive into, this charming museum is also well worth seeking out.
Located in the stunning neoclassical gem that is the Palace of Saints Michael and George, a lingering 19th century reminder of the period of British occupation of the Ionian islands, it came into the possession of the Greek state later that same century.
Spreading over three floors, the Museum of Asian Art has both permanent and temporary collections and exhibitions with a rich Chinese collection as well as pieces from India, Korea, Japan, and beyond. There are over 10,500 items in total, a vast majority of which came from the private collection of Gregorios Manos (1850-1928).
With a wing of the museum named after him, this Greek ambassador to Austria bought around 9,500 Chinese, Korean and Japanese artefacts at auction in the 19th and 20th centuries and eventually founded the museum with his collection as its basis. Other private collections were added to the museum’s holdings and donations further added to institution.
Among the items on display are Chinese paintings and ceramics, Japanese ceramics, prints, and musical instruments, Samurai armour and weaponry, 19th and 20th century Korean paintings, Indian bronze religious sculptures and miniature paintings from the 2nd century BC to the 19th century AD, Afganistan-Pakistani Gandhara grey schist Buddhist, painted votive banners from Nepal and Tibet, and much, much more besides. It is a wide, varied, and sumptuous collection with a large range of everyday and art objects from each of these countries as well as stand-out and familiar pieces with that wow factor such as the elegant ceramics and intimidating Samurai armour.
A perfect place to escape the heat for a few hours and to see an amazing range of Asian art from all across the continent and throughout the centuries, entry costs just a few euros making it an absolute must-see. Book your holiday rental in the Ionian Islands and be sure to add this little gem to your itinerary when you come to explore Corfu!
