Corfu, Greece – A major cultural restoration project is set to begin in Corfu following the official signing of a €6,396,851.22 funding agreement by the Regional Governor of the Ionian Islands, Giannis Trepekli. The funding, secured under the ‘IONIAN ISLANDS 2021-2027’ program, is specifically allocated for the “Restoration and Reuse of the Listed Building of the Angelos Giallinas Gallery in Corfu.”
A Long-Awaited Project for Corfu’s Historic Centre
The final beneficiary of this substantial investment is the Municipality of Central Corfu & Diapontia Islands. Regional Governor Giannis Trepekli expressed his satisfaction with the development, stating, “Today I signed the major project that Corfu has been waiting for, the historic city center has been waiting for, and the ‘Giallinas’ Foundation has been waiting for. This is €6,936,000; the project has the necessary funding to be completed soon and with quality. Of course, there has been effort from previous years – everyone had the will for the building to be completed, but the conditions were not in place.”
Comprehensive Restoration of a Historic Landmark
The project focuses on the restoration and reuse of the listed building of the Angelos Giallinas Gallery, owned by the Angelos Giallinas Foundation. Located in the old town of Corfu, at the intersection of Lavrentiou Mavili, Kapodistriou, and Seremeti streets, the building boasts a total area of 1,391.07 m² and is designated as a historical preserved monument according to Government Gazette 29/D/1996.
The scope of work includes demolitions, restoration interventions, interior and exterior landscaping, and the procurement of equipment to ensure the full functionality of the Gallery, all based on an approved definitive study.
Functional Configuration of the Building
The restored gallery will feature a multi-functional layout across its various levels:
Ground Floor:
- Entrance – Reception with disabled access
- Gift shop
- Space for Corfiot artists
- Restaurant
First Floor:
This floor will be dedicated exclusively to the exhibition of Angelos Giallinas’s works, showcasing 586 watercolors and oil paintings across 16 thematic units. Two front rooms will recreate Giallinas’s residence (living room and atelier) with authentic furniture, offering visitors a glimpse into the artist’s life.
Second Floor:
The second floor will accommodate multiple uses, including:
- Lecture hall with translation booths
- Spaces for temporary exhibitions
- Restrooms and auxiliary/storage areas
Basement:
The basement will house the administrative services of the Foundation and specialized storage areas with appropriate environmental conditions for unexhibited artworks, ensuring their preservation.
The restoration project is expected to significantly enhance Corfu’s cultural landscape, providing a modern and accessible home for the valuable collection of Angelos Giallinas, while also offering new spaces for artistic and educational activities within the city’s historic center.
Source: https://www.startmediacorfu.gr/o-perifereiarchis-ypegrapse-simera-tin-entaksi-praksis-6-396-85122-e-gia-tin-apokatastasi-kai-epanachrisi-tis-pinakothikis-angelou-giallina-stin-kerkyra/
