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Mantzaros Music Museum

4 min read


Mantzaros Philharmonic Music Museum: A Complete Visitor’s Guide

MANTZAROS MUSEUM AT A GLANCE

LocationCorfu Old Town
Famous ForCorfu’s Musical Heritage
VibeCultural, Historic & Niche
AccessBy Foot (Ticketed Entry)
Key SightsMusical Scores & Instruments
Best ForMusic Lovers & History Buffs

An Overview of the Mantzaros Museum

The Mantzaros Philharmonic Society is one of Greece’s oldest and most important musical institutions, and its small museum offers a fascinating glimpse into this rich heritage. The museum is dedicated to the society’s first artistic director, Nikolaos Halikiopoulos Mantzaros – the celebrated composer who set Greece’s “Hymn to Liberty” to music, creating the National Anthem. A visit allows you to discover the history of Corfu’s famous philharmonic bands, see rare musical scores and instruments, and appreciate the profound role that music plays in the island’s cultural identity.

Quick Planner

⏳ Time Needed
30-45 Minutes
⭐ Don’t Miss
Mantzaros’s Piano
📍 Plan Your Day
Combine with Corfu Old Town

How Will You Get Here?

By Car (Parking & Walk)

You cannot drive directly to the museum. Park at the New Port or Old Fortress car parks and enjoy a 10-15 minute walk.

By Bus (Short Walk from Terminal)

The main bus hub at San Rocco Square is a very short 5-minute walk from the museum, making the bus an excellent option.

Join a Guided Walking Tour

Discover the rich cultural history of Corfu Town and its musical heritage with an expert local guide.


In-Depth Guide & Details

Getting There & Location

The museum is located within the historic building of the Philharmonic Society in the heart of the Old Town.

  • By Car & Parking: You cannot drive to the museum. It is deep within the pedestrianized centre. The best options are the paid public car parks near the New Port or below the Old Fortress, followed by a 10-15 minute walk. See our parking guide above.
  • By Bus: The main bus hub at San Rocco Square is a very short 5-minute walk from the museum, making the bus an excellent option.
  • By Foot: The museum is located on Filarmonikis Street, just off the main shopping street of Nikiforou Theotoki, and is very easy to find while exploring the Old Town.

Tickets & Access
  • Tickets: A small entrance fee is typically required, which supports the preservation of this important cultural institution.
  • Access: The museum is housed on an upper floor of the historic building and requires climbing stairs, which may limit access for visitors with mobility impairments.
What to See Inside: Key Highlights

The collection is a treasure trove for music and history lovers.

  • Nikolaos Mantzaros’s Piano: See the personal piano of the great composer himself, a centerpiece of the collection.
  • Rare Musical Scores: The museum displays rare, handwritten scores by Mantzaros and other Ionian composers, including early versions of the Greek National Anthem.
  • Historic Instruments: Discover a collection of old and beautiful wind instruments, drums, and other items used by the famous philharmonic band over its long history.
  • Photographs & Documents: A rich archive of photographs, official documents, and concert programmes tells the story of the society’s important role in Corfiot life, especially during the famous Easter celebrations.
Is the Mantzaros Museum Worth Visiting?

You’ll Love This Museum If…

  • You are a musician or have an interest in classical music and its history.
  • You want to understand the story behind Corfu’s famous marching bands.
  • You are fascinated by Greek national history and the story of its anthem.
  • You enjoy small, specialized museums that offer deep cultural insight.

Important Things to Know…

  • It is not accessible for those who cannot climb stairs.
  • This is a small, traditional museum, not an interactive exhibit.
  • A visit is relatively short, typically taking 30-45 minutes.
  • Opening hours can be limited; it’s always best to check locally before visiting.
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What Else Can I See Nearby?

Visit the Museum of Asian Art

Housed in the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, this unique museum showcases a stunning collection of Asian art.

Discover the Serbian Museum

Learn about the poignant history of the Serbian army during WWI and their refuge on Corfu at this small, significant museum.

See the Byzantine Museum

Housed in the beautiful Church of Panagia Antivouniotissa, explore a rich collection of Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons.


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