Archaeological Museum of Corfu | From Korkyra to Koryfo and from Prehistoric to Roman Times
Updated: Nov 3
Authors
George P. Papadellis | SG Head
with some good tips from AI
Located in the picturesque area of Garitsa, the modern Archaeological Museum of Corfu houses a remarkable collection of artifacts spanning from the Paleolithic era to the Roman period. Originally built in the 1960s to showcase the extraordinary findings from the Temple of Artemis, the museum has expanded over the years to encompass artifacts from the ancient citadel of Corfu and other regions of the island. Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of Corfu as you journey through the captivating exhibits of this archaeological treasure trove.
Dionysian Symposium Pediment | Photo by: Liubomir G, Археологічний музей Керкіри29, cropped by Shiny Greece, CC BY-SA 4.0
Preserving the Past
The Archaeological Museum of Corfu is a testament to the commitment of preserving and sharing the island's archaeological heritage. Constructed between 1962 and 1965, the museum was made possible through a generous donation from the City of Corfu. After a modern restoration project between 2012 and 2016, the museum now stands as a two-storey modern building, providing an ideal setting for the awe-inspiring artifacts it houses. Originally, the museum was designed to house the exceptional findings from the Temple of Artemis. However, its significance expanded as two additional halls were added to accommodate artifacts from the ancient citadel of Corfu and various areas of the island. With a comprehensive range of exhibits dating from Prehistoric to Roman times, the Archaeological Museum of Corfu offers visitors a captivating journey through centuries of human history.
Late Archaic Sancturary Plaque in the Archaeological Museum of Corfu | Photo by: Zde, Terracotta plaque, late Archaic, AM Corfu, Krfm16, CC BY-SA 4.0
Ancient Wonders
The Archaeological Museum of Corfu boasts a diverse collection that provides insight into the lives and cultures of the ancient civilizations that once thrived on the island. The ground floor of the museum is dedicated to prehistoric findings, spanning from the Paleolithic era to the Bronze Age and the foundation of the ancient city of Corfu during the colonization period. Ascending to the first floor, visitors are transported to the Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman periods. Ancient Corfu takes center stage with exhibits showcasing the Temple of Artemis, the Agora, the harbors, the sanctuaries, the houses, the cemetery, and the workshops. Notable highlights among the artifacts include the cenotaph of Menecrates, the Gorgon pediment (Greece's oldest stone pediment) from the Temple of Artemis, the Lion of Menecrates, terracotta statuettes of Artemis, the marble torso of Apollo, the funerary stele of Philistion, and the Stele of Arniadas. The museum's collections are sourced from various origins, including an old collection of unknown provenance, excavations of the ancient town of Corfu, excavations of the ancient town of Cassiopi in northern Corfu, and excavations of Thesprotia on the opposite coast of Epirus. Visitors can explore bronze statues spanning from the Archaic to the Roman era, funeral offerings from the Archaic, Classical, and Hellenistic periods, a rich collection of ancient coins, Prehistoric artifacts, and remarkable findings from the 7th and 6th century B.C.
Gorgon Pediment | Photo by: Liubomir G, Горгона артеміда, cropped by Shiny Greece, CC BY-SA 4.0
Museum Accessibility
The Archaeological Museum Corfu Town can be reached on foot. Also, the city bus line 2 (from Plateia/ Liston - Kanoni) stops close by.
Corfu Museum Tickets
Full: €6
Reduced: €3 (from 1st November to 31st March, the reduced price of the single ticket applies independently to all visitors)
Special ticket package for many museums: €15 (valid for 3 days including also the Antivouniotissa Byzantine Museum, the Museum of Asian Art, the Museum of Palaiopolis-Mon Repos and the Old Fortress of Corfu)
Coin Hoards of 5th Century BC in the Archaeological Museum of Corfu | Photo by: Liubomir G, Археологічний музей Керкіри30, CC BY-SA 4.0
Operating Hours
Winter: 1st November to 31st March (daily, except Tuesday, 08.30-15.30)
Summer: 14th May to 31st October (daily, except Tuesday, 08.00-20.00)
Last admission: twenty (20) minutes before closing time
Access for Disabled
The Archaeological Museum Corfu is accessibile to people with disabilities. There are special wheelchair ramps, a lift and a specially designed WC. For the visually impaired, the Museum features exhibits for tactile exploration, accompanied by corresponding Braille plates.
Exterior of the Archaeological Museum of Corfu | Photo by: Joanbanjo, Museu Arqueològic de Corfú, exterior, CC BY-SA 3.0
A Vibrant History
The Archaeological Museum of Corfu is a testament to the island's rich and diverse history. Through its captivating exhibits, the museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the ancient civilizations that once flourished on Corfu. From the Paleolithic era to the Roman period, visitors can immerse themselves in the wonders of ancient art, culture, and daily life. As you wander through the halls of this modern museum, be sure to marvel at the extraordinary Gorgon-Medusa pediment from the Temple of Artemis, the magnificent lion of Menecrates, and the exquisite marble torso of Apollo. Each artifact tells a story, bridging the gap between past and present, and allowing visitors to connect with the island's rich cultural heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an archaeology buff, or simply curious about the ancient world, the Archaeological Museum of Corfu promises an unforgettable journey through time. Discover the wonders of Corfu's past and gain a deeper understanding of the island's vibrant history.
