Antivouniotissa Museum
Discover centuries of Byzantine art and religious treasures within a historic church, offering stunning icons and a beautiful sea view.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds
Antivouniotissa Museum
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover centuries of Byzantine art and religious treasures within a historic church, offering stunning icons and a beautiful sea view.
"One of the most impressive Byzantine museums I've ever seen, with a lovely peaceful experience. "
🎯 Park Smart, Walk Happy
Parking is tough! Park near the Old Fortress & enjoy the Old City walk. :car:
💰 Ticket Info
Entry is around 5 EUR. Be prepared to go through the museum to buy tickets. :euro:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stunning Iconography
Main exhibition halls
Marvel at centuries of religious paintings and icons, with descriptions in Greek and English.
Sacristy Treasures
Sacristy
Explore old priest suits, church accessories, and silverware for the Eucharist.
Panoramic Sea View
Upper level/hallway
Enjoy a beautiful view of the blue sea and the town's charming architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hidden Gem with a View
Ticket & Parking Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Park Smart, Walk Happy
Parking is tough! Park near the Old Fortress & enjoy the Old City walk. :car:
💰 Ticket Info
Entry is around 5 EUR. Be prepared to go through the museum to buy tickets. :euro:
🚶♀️ Hidden Entrance
The museum is well-hidden between houses; look for the stairs leading up. :housewithgarden:
📖 Bilingual Descriptions
Enjoy detailed explanations of the art in both Greek and English. :books:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Park Smart, Walk Happy
Parking is tough! Park near the Old Fortress & enjoy the Old City walk. :car:
💰 Ticket Info
Entry is around 5 EUR. Be prepared to go through the museum to buy tickets. :euro:
🚶♀️ Hidden Entrance
The museum is well-hidden between houses; look for the stairs leading up. :housewithgarden:
📖 Bilingual Descriptions
Enjoy detailed explanations of the art in both Greek and English. :books:
🌬️ Stay Cool
Rooms are equipped with large fans, making it comfortable even on warm days. :windblowingface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Antivouniotissa Museum for its impressive collection of Byzantine icons and religious artifacts, housed within a beautiful, historic church. The bilingual descriptions are helpful, and many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the lovely sea view. Some note that parking is difficult and lighting could be improved in certain areas.
"There is an entrance ticket, 5 euro per person. Inside there are many old icons, old priest suits and church accessories. If you appreciate bizantine architecture you should consider visiting it…"
Adrian Filimon
"I think is one of the most impressive bizantine museum i ever seen"
rafael alin marin
"A religious theme museum, orthodox in fact, organised in an old church.
The museum is very well hidden between the houses. You can see the entrance from the main road but to go there you have to climb a few (more) stairs.
If you intend to go by car, there is no way to find a parking place near the museum only if you are lucky enough someone to leave in the moment you are just near him, by merci of God. I would recommend you to park the car at the parking located in the front of the Old fortress and to have a 10 - 60 minutes of walk through the Old City.
I wrote 60 minutes because the road to "those saints" (to the museum) is full of temptations, as you walk on the streets full of shops from the Old City.
If you finally reach the museum, with at least 4 EUR in your pocket or credit card, then you will be able to buy a ticket. To buy a ticket you have to go somewhere behind the museum but you have to pass through the museum. There is a young lady and she will tell you where to go to buy the tickets.
The museum is in the building of an old church. The walls are full of paintings, religious paintings. There are labels with explanations written in greek language and in english language.
The museum is not bigger than a church of medium size, it has a semi-circular hall on the outside wich is full of paintings. You can climb a stair and see the interior church from the top, from first level (second level for brothers across the ocean).
At the end of the visit and if you parked the car where I recommend you and if you want to avoid "temptations" from the Old City, you can take the main road. There are 2 very nice restaurants, placed on the water from where the view is beautiful.
Have a nice visit!"
Eddy B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Antivouniotissa Museum is located in Corfu's Old Town. Parking directly at the museum is very difficult. Most visitors recommend parking at the lot near the Old Fortress and walking through the charming Old City streets to reach it. This walk can take anywhere from 10 to 60 minutes, depending on how much you stop to shop or admire the surroundings.
The museum is described as 'very well hidden between the houses' in the Old City. You might see the entrance from the main road, but you'll need to climb some stairs to get there.
Driving directly to the Antivouniotissa Museum is not recommended due to severe parking limitations. It's best to park in a designated area and walk.
Enjoy the walk through the Old City! The streets are full of shops and sights, making the journey part of the experience. Just be mindful of the stairs leading up to the museum entrance.
Yes, after your visit, you can find two nice restaurants located on the water, offering beautiful views, especially if you've parked near the Old Fortress.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance ticket for the Antivouniotissa Museum is approximately 5 EUR per person.
You'll need to go behind the museum, passing through it, to purchase your ticket from a staff member.
Specific opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daytime hours. It's advisable to check locally or look for signs upon arrival, especially if visiting during shoulder seasons.
Advance booking is typically not required for the Antivouniotissa Museum, as it's not usually overcrowded. You can purchase tickets upon arrival.
The museum is housed in an old church and involves stairs, so it may not be fully accessible for individuals with mobility issues.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Antivouniotissa Museum showcases notable religious artwork, primarily icons, from the 15th to the 20th century. It's a significant collection of Byzantine and post-Byzantine art.
Yes, each piece of art has labels with explanations written in both Greek and English, making the exhibits accessible to a wider audience.
Visitors describe the atmosphere as good and peaceful, with well-kept rooms. Despite not being art historians, many find themselves interested in the displays.
The museum is not excessively large, comparable to a medium-sized church. It features a semi-circular hall and an upper level offering views.
One of the highlights is a great view of the sea from certain points within the museum, adding to the overall pleasant experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary, but generally, visitors are allowed to take photos for personal use. It's always a good idea to check for any posted signs or ask staff if unsure.
The sea view from the upper levels is a popular photo spot. The intricate details of the icons and the historic church architecture also make for great shots.
While the atmosphere is generally good, some visitors have noted that the lighting could be improved in certain areas for photography.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities or a mirrorless camera would be suitable for capturing the details of the icons and the ambiance of the church.
Flash photography is often prohibited in museums to protect delicate artworks. It's best to assume no flash is allowed unless otherwise indicated.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If visiting with family, consider combining the museum visit with a walk through the Old Town of Corfu, which offers more dynamic exploration opportunities. The journey to the museum, involving navigating the charming streets and climbing stairs, can be an adventure in itself. Remember that parking is challenging, so planning your transport and allowing extra time is key for a stress-free family outing.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, take advantage of the recommended strategy of parking further away (e.g., near the Old Fortress) and walking. This avoids expensive parking fees and allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Old Town for free. Pack some snacks and water, as this can help reduce impulse purchases while exploring the charming streets.
🏛️ Art & History Enthusiasts
The museum's setting within a historic church adds another layer of appreciation. You're not just viewing art; you're experiencing it within a space that was designed for worship. The sacristy, with its display of old vestments and liturgical items, further enriches the historical narrative. Don't miss the opportunity to climb to the upper levels for a unique perspective on the art and a beautiful view of the sea.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Byzantine Corfu
What makes the Antivouniotissa Museum particularly engaging is the presence of bilingual descriptions. These labels, provided in both Greek and English, ensure that visitors can understand the historical and religious significance of each artwork. This thoughtful approach makes the museum accessible and informative, even for those without extensive knowledge of Byzantine art history. The collection includes not only icons but also other religious artifacts, such as old priest suits and church accessories, providing a comprehensive look at Orthodox liturgical practices.
Beyond the art, the museum offers a unique perspective on Corfu's history. Housed in the Church of the Most Holy Mother of God Antivouniotissa, built in the 15th century, the building itself is a significant monument. The museum's layout, with its semi-circular hall and upper levels, allows for varied viewing experiences, including a notable sea view. This combination of historical architecture, sacred art, and scenic beauty makes the Antivouniotissa Museum a truly memorable destination.
Navigating Corfu's Old Town
Parking is a significant consideration when visiting the Old Town. As mentioned in traveler tips, parking directly near the museum is extremely difficult. The most practical advice is to park your car at the designated parking area in front of the Old Fortress. From there, you can embark on a delightful walk through the Old City. This walk is not just a means to an end; it's an immersion into the vibrant atmosphere of Corfu, with plenty of 'temptations' in the form of shops and sights to see along the way.
To make the most of your visit, allow ample time not only for the museum but also for exploring the surrounding Old Town. Consider visiting the museum earlier in the day or during off-peak hours to avoid crowds. After your visit, you can enjoy a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants near the Old Fortress, offering beautiful views and a relaxing end to your exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit