A visit to the Museum of Asian Art in Corfu Town presents a fascinating insight into thousands of years of Asian art. Discover some of the 15,000 works of art and antique objects donated to the museum from private collections. Spot everything from Chinese ceramics and Japanese Sharaku art to Hindu religious carvings and nomadic textiles.
The museum’s permanent exhibitions are split into four art collections: Chinese, Japanese, South East Asian and Central Asian. Find around 3,500 objects in the Chinese collection, including porcelain and ceramic objects that date from about 1200 B.C. to the 10th century. The Japanese collection has over 6,000 objects, such as rare Sharaku paintings, Samurai armour and ceramics.
In the South East Asian collection, find religious figurines from Cambodia, India, Nepal and Tibet, among other places. These handcrafted pieces trace the history of the important religions of Buddhism, Hinduism and others. The Central Asian collection displays art from former Soviet Union republics. Spot handmade rugs, nomadic clothing, ancient coins and jewellery from the 19th century.
While here, check out the museum’s temporary exhibitions. They cover everything from the history of Maltese immigrants in Corfu to a historical account of Japanese geishas and visual impressions of Greece’s Ionian Islands.
Take time to admire the museum’s magnificent building, the Palace of St. Michael and St. George. Built during British rule, it has served as the residence of the British Lord High Commissioner and as home for the Ionian Senate and Parliament. Look for the portraits of presidents of the Ionian Senate that adorn the walls of the first floor.
Find the museum on the northern side of Spianada Square in the Old Town of Corfu Town. It is within walking distance of other major attractions in Corfu Town, including the Old Fortress and Liston Promenade.
The Museum of Asian Art is open from Tuesday to Sunday. It remains closed on select public holidays. Consider purchasing a combined ticket, which grants admission to three other attractions in Corfu Town. Check the museum’s official website for the complete opening hours, admission fees and details of free-admission days.
