Kapodistrias Museum Corfu

Μετάφραση Greek Version

Kapodistrias Museum Corfu

The Kapodistrias Museum – Center for Capodistrian Studies is located at Koukouritsa, a historic Capodistrias family estate near the village of Evropouloi in central Corfu. Dedicated to Ioannis Capodistrias, the first Governor of modern Greece, the museum presents his life, political career and legacy through a collection of personal belongings, family memorabilia, historical documents and period furnishings.

The museum has operated since 1981 and was created following the donation of the family country house and its heirlooms by Maria Capodistria-Desylla. A prominent member of Corfiot society, she served as Mayor of Corfu from 1956 to 1959 and was the first woman to hold a mayoral office in Greece.

 

The Koukouritsa Estate

Koukouritsa was one of the Capodistrias family's country estates in Corfu and remained in the family's possession from the 18th century until 1980. Ioannis Capodistrias spent part of his youth here, and the estate was once used for agricultural production. The name Koukouritsa comes from the Corfiot dialect and means “top of the hill”.

The estate is particularly significant because of Capodistrias' close connection with Corfu. Born on the island in 1776, he spent most of his early life here before beginning his international political career. He later served as Foreign Minister of the Russian Empire and eventually became the first Governor of Greece.

 

What to See at the Kapodistrias Museum

The permanent exhibition follows the life of Ioannis Capodistrias chronologically. It begins with his childhood, education and early political career in Corfu and the Septinsular Republic, continues through his years in Europe and Russia, and concludes with his role as Governor of Greece and the events surrounding his assassination in Nafplio.

The exhibits include personal belongings of Capodistrias, family heirlooms, period furniture, photographs, archival material, government documents and objects associated with the early Greek state. Among the exhibits is the phoenix, the first currency of modern Greece, together with artworks connected with Capodistrias and his death.

 

The Historic Garden at Koukouritsa

The museum is surrounded by a historic garden covering around 13,000 square metres. The grounds retain their original terraces and combine characteristic Corfiot vegetation with exotic species, while the hilltop location provides panoramic views over the surrounding area. Visitors can follow a route through the estate and learn more about its history and natural environment.

The museum also has a garden café and museum shop, while cultural and educational events are held in the grounds during the summer months.

 

How to Get to the Kapodistrias Museum

The Kapodistrias Museum is about 7 km from Corfu Town, near Evropouloi. By car, follow the road towards Evropouloi from the Palaiokastritsa National Road and follow the signs for the museum. Urban bus line 4 also serves the museum, with a stop at Koukouritsa. Free parking is available within the estate.

The Kapodistrias Museum is a worthwhile stop for visitors interested in Corfu's history and cultural sights, particularly those who want to learn more about Ioannis Capodistrias and his family's long connection with the island.