Mon Repos Residence – Corfu Car Rental, 99knots

Mon Repos Residence, Corfu Car Rental 99Knots

Nestled within the historical embrace of Corfu's past, Mon Repos Palace stands as a testament to the island's rich and storied history. Situated just a short distance from the old town, this majestic residence unfolds like a dream, encompassing not only its elegant interior spaces but also the enchanting expanse of its lush gardens. Perched atop the Hill of Analipsis, the palace offers a vantage point that reveals a breathtaking panorama of the Ionian Sea, all while occupying a location of remarkable archaeological significance as the heart of ancient Corfu.

Distance from Corfu Town

2km
Distance from airport

1km
Pebble Beach

3km long
Nightlife

No
Ideal-sized car

Medium

The Story

Inhabited since the 8th century BCE, this site bears witness to a history replete with the grandeur of the past. Ancient artifacts and remnants harken back to a time when the bustling agora stood just opposite Mon Repos, while the imposing 4th-century BCE wall that once reached six meters in height can be glimpsed when approaching the estate. Mon Repos has not merely observed history; it has been an integral part of it. Conceived under the visionary leadership of Sir Frederick Adam, the British High Commissioner of the Ionian Islands, Mon Repos was inspired by his deep affection for the island, which was equally reciprocated by the Corfiots' admiration for him. It is said that the decision to construct the palace was greatly influenced by Nina Palatianou, his Corfiot wife, a member of one of the island's oldest families.

Mon Repos Corfu

The architecture of Mon Repos embodies a blend of Regency style, harmonizing with the prevailing rhythms of the time, and stands today as a meticulously preserved specimen of neoclassical architecture from the Interregnum era. What strikes the eye when approaching Mon Repos is its seamless melding of classical Hellenic elegance with a touch of romanticism. This design philosophy extends to the palace's interior, which exudes an understated sense of comfort, eschewing extravagance. The presence of the Adam-Palatianou couple was preserved in the palace for a mere two years, from 1831 to 1832, before they embarked on a new chapter in India. Subsequently, other commissioners took residence at Mon Repos until 1864, when, following the unification of the Ionian Islands with Greece, the estate was bestowed upon King George I, who christened it "Mon Repos," signifying "my repose," as it served as his summer royal residence.

Mon Repos welcomed several European royals, including Empress Elisabeth of Austria in 1863. Furthermore, Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh and husband of Queen Elizabeth II of England took his first breath within Mon Repos in 1921, a fact commemorated by a plaque at the entrance. Since the Metapolitefsi, the palace has been under the stewardship of the Municipality of Corfu.

The Paleopolis Museum, also known as ancient Corfu, finds its current abode in Mon Repos, gracing the palace’s first floor. The museum offers an abundance of photographic material showcasing the sites that once constituted ancient Corfu and their archaeological excavations. Visitors will encounter statues, votive objects from ancient sanctuaries, and everyday use ceramics, all shedding light on the ancient agora’s role as a hub of commerce, politics, and the economy. The enlightening exhibition “Periplous” underscores Corfu’s significant role in Mediterranean history, thanks to its strategic location.

As you venture beyond the palace’s threshold, prepare for a stroll through the estate’s splendid gardens, an oasis of verdant grandeur. The gardens surrounding the palace reflect the prevailing 19th-century style, serving as an organic extension of both private and public gardens. The gardens at Mon Repos, designed according to the standards of botany and horticulture of that era, sought to offer residents a direct connection with nature. They were not only functional but also an ornamental extension of the home. Beautifully flowering trees and a profusion of blossoms have been meticulously planted around the palace, providing splendid vistas and vibrant panoramas from every window.

Yet, as you venture deeper into the gardens, the ambiance transforms into a dense, forest-like setting. Towering trees, ancient olive groves, majestic laurels, and strawberry trees, some with colossal trunks resembling sculptures, all evoke a sense of awe and adventure. The sloping, shaded paths of the 230-acre botanical garden offer a magnificent view of the island’s eastern coastline, with its azure-green waters, while the radiant sun gleams amidst the rich foliage.

For the grand finale of your journey, the most surprise awaits: amid the shrubs and trees, the ruins of two ancient temples emerge. The Temple of Hera from 610 BCE and the Kardaki Temple stand as early masterpieces of archaic Greek architecture, beckoning you to explore among their remaining columns before following the return path that will lead you back to Mon Repos’ courtyard. There, you can savor a few more idyllic views of the Ionian Sea, a fitting conclusion to this journey through time.

Renting a car while visiting Mon Repos in Corfu provides unmatched convenience and flexibility. It allows for independent exploration, easy access to nearby attractions, and comfortable transportation to and from the estate. This is especially advantageous for those with mobility considerations or a preference for avoiding public transit.