20.09.2024
In the heart of Corfu, the St. Michael and St. George Palace dazzles with its rich history and stunning design. Once the grand residence of a British lord, this neoclassical masterpiece now hosts Greece’s premier Museum of Asian Art. From its opulent origins to its vibrant role today, the Palace offers a unique journey through time and culture. Discover its secrets and explore the artistic treasures within its storied walls.
The St. Michael and St. George Palace is not just a stunning architectural marvel; it stands as a testament to the unique history of the Ionian Islands during the British rule from 1815 to 1864. Built at the request of Sir Thomas Maitland, the British Lord High Commissioner, this grand edifice served as both his luxurious residence and the administrative headquarters of the Ionian State. As the seat of the Ionian Senate and Parliament, it symbolized the islands’ autonomy during a tumultuous period.
The Palace, designed by Sir George Whitmore, is an exquisite example of neoclassical and Regency architectural styles. Whitmore blended elements of Roman and Ancient Greek architecture, embodying the neopalladianism that was popular in England at the time. The collaboration with local sculptor Pavlos Prosalentis added a layer of artistic depth, with intricate sculptural decorations that reflect the cultural fusion of the period.
After the unification of the Ionian Islands with Greece in 1864, the Palace was repurposed as a royal residence, hosting the Greek royal family during their visits. Its opulent interiors, adorned with English and French furniture, tapestries, and art, showcased the wealth and importance of the building. However, the tumult of the Balkan Wars and World War I brought about significant changes, as the Palace was adapted to meet the urgent needs of the time.
In the aftermath of World War II, the Palace faced extensive damage, including roof bombings and looting. Despite this, the vision for a Museum of Asian Art began to take shape in 1919, driven by the donation of Gregorios Manos. Following decades of repairs and restoration, including a significant renovation for the 1994 European Union Summit, the Palace has emerged as a vibrant museum, showcasing a rich collection of Asian art and history.
Today, the St. Michael and St. George Palace houses the Museum of Asian Art, the first of its kind in Greece. Visitors can explore a unique collection that spans centuries and cultures, all within the beautifully restored walls of this historic building. The museum not only showcases art but also tells the story of the Palace and its transformation through time.
Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the cultural tapestry of the Ionian Islands, the St. Michael and St. George Palace offers a captivating glimpse into the past. Its stunning design, rich history, and vibrant museum make it a must-visit destination on your journey through Corfu. What stories will you uncover within its walls?
Source: Museum of Asian Art, Corfu. (n.d.). Museum of Asian Art official website.
05.10.2026
Leonard Cohen's poem "Days of Kindness", from 1985, describes Greece as being a good place to read by moonlight on the terrace. He knew this from experience. Hydra was his home for much of the 1960s. He arrived in the spring of 1960, aged 25, and bought a house on the island, where he wrote much of his early work. Many places on Hydra still carry traces of him, even now that Hydra has become far better known.
16.04.2026
Greece is often associated with ancient history, island landscapes, and carefully preserved traditions. Less discussed, however, is another layer of its identity: its place names. Across the mainland and the islands, thousands of villages carry names that can sound unexpectedly funny or strikingly literal to a modern Greek speaker. These are not recent inventions or deliberate attempts at humor. Most date back centuries, shaped by geography, daily life, local dialects, and historical circumstances. What makes them stand out today is the shift in language over time. Words that once served as straightforward descriptions of land, resources, or communities can now feel unusually direct or unexpectedly humorous. Looking at these names more closely offers insight into how earlier generations observed their surroundings and chose to define them.
20.03.2026
Greece has long been more than a travel destination. For centuries, writers have been drawn to its history, natural beauty, and authenticity, finding in Greece not just a setting, but a source of inspiration that shapes narratives, characters, and perspectives.
19.02.2026
02.01.2026
In Greece, the holiday season does not end on New Year’s Day. Instead, it culminates in one of the most symbolic celebrations of the year: Epiphany, known in Greek as Theofania. More than a religious holiday, Epiphany in Greece represents the triumph of light over darkness, a spiritual “new beginning” for individuals and communities. For anyone living in Greece, or dreaming of owning a home here, Epiphany offers one of the most authentic snapshots of local culture. From the blessing of the waters to ancient folk rituals, this day reveals the deep connection between the Greek people, nature, and tradition.
30.12.2025
Crete is stepping into the global spotlight once again. According to Airbnb’s latest travel trend insights based on worldwide search data from Q3 2025, the island — and especially the iconic Samaria Gorge National Park — ranks among the most sought-after nature destinations for 2026. This surge reflects a broader shift in how people choose where to travel, live, and invest. Travellers are no longer looking only for beaches or city breaks. Instead, they are drawn to authentic natural environments, outdoor experiences, and destinations that offer both beauty and balance, qualities that Crete delivers effortlessly.
19.12.2025
Greece is known mostly for its pristine beaches and its endless summers. Also, Greek cuisine, with its unique Mediterranean dishes, is widely sought after. What might feel surprising is the magical beauty during Christmas in Greece. The country has a long festive season that runs from Christmas to Epiphany (the “Φώτα” on 6 January), full of local customs, food traditions, and small village rituals that still matter to people today. Winter destinations are also famous in Greece, as according to the latest Monitoring Sentiment for Intra-European Travel report (Wave 23) by the European Travel Commission (ETC), Greece ranks among the top 10 most desired European destinations for travel between October 2025 and March 2026, holding a solid 7th place.
19.12.2025
Spending New Year’s Eve on Greek islands is about much more than fireworks, food and champagne. It’s about little family rituals, centuries-old customs and the warm feeling of being part of a close community. For anyone dreaming of a holiday home or a new life in Greece, New Year's Eve is one of the unique moments to experience the soul of island life, when most tourists aren’t there, and you can experience authentic community moments with locals. As we’ve mentioned in an older blog post, cutting the famous Vasilopita, a special bread to honour the Greek Santa Claus, is the most important custom happening in almost every house in Greece at the turn of the year. A lucky coin is baked into the cake, and whoever finds it will have good luck for the next year or may even take a gift. But let’s explore a bit more of Greece’s rich traditions and local communities, from its enchanting islands to the unique customs celebrated on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
