Corfu, May 6 – The Capodistrias Museum – Center for Capodistrian Studies in Corfu is set to undergo a certification process to ensure its full utilization, as announced by Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni. This initiative aims to elevate the museum’s status, secure stable funding, and enhance its contribution to preserving the legacy of Ioannis Capodistrias.
Minister Mendoni Emphasizes National Pride and Support
During her statement, Minister Mendoni highlighted the significance of Ioannis Capodistrias as a historical figure and politician, expressing national pride in his legacy. She stressed the importance of honoring him and acknowledged the museum’s role in this endeavor.
“The Capodistrias Museum – Center for Capodistrian Studies is a highly commendable scientific organization. I believe that for Ioannis Capodistrias, as a personality and as a politician, not only the people of Corfu but all of Greece are proud, and if his assassination had not occurred, many things might be different today. Therefore, we all have a duty to honor him,” stated Mendoni.
Ministry’s Ongoing Support and Certification Drive
Mendoni clarified that while the museum operates as a private initiative and is not directly supervised by the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry has consistently supported it, both financially and operationally. The museum building has been designated as a monument by the Ministry, which has provided scientific and technical assistance for organizing collections, staff training, and educational programs.
The Ministry is now encouraging the museum to pursue official recognition. Mendoni explained that from 2026 onwards, only certified public museums and recognized private museums will be eligible for funding. This certification will enable the Capodistrias Museum to leverage opportunities provided by both European and Greek certification and recognition systems for museums.
Funding and Local Community Engagement
Currently, the Capodistrias Museum can receive annual grants of approximately 25,000 to 30,000 Euros from the Ministry of Culture through annual calls for significant museums. However, Mendoni noted that the museum has not yet fully utilized the registry system for these funds.
“We want to help, but these museums, which are important for both the country and local communities, must first and foremost be supported by local communities,” the Minister emphasized.
Independent MP Calls for Stable Funding
Independent MP Alexandros Avlonitis advocated for stable funding from the Ministry of Culture, stressing that the museum must continue its operations to preserve Capodistrias’s historical memory. He highlighted that the three cultural bodies operating the museum – the Reading Society of Corfu, the Philharmonic Society of Corfu, and the Society of Corfiot Studies – are seeking state support for its continued development.
Avlonitis proposed a stable funding mechanism from the Ministry, a programmatic agreement, and a special cooperation status to acknowledge the state’s obligation for continuous support, without altering the museum’s legal status.
Minister’s Response: Autonomy vs. Accountability
Mendoni reiterated that the museum is not state-supervised. She explained that while the museum could apply annually for funding through the registry, securing the maximum 30,000 Euros due to its significance and existing collaboration with the Ministry, a legislative regulation would alter its status significantly.
“If there is a legislative regulation, the museum would acquire a different status; its board of directors would not be appointed as it is today. Representatives of the Ministry of Culture would participate in the board, and it would be subject to control. It enters a different logic. Let’s look at it, let’s discuss it, but then the Museum and those involved with it will have to understand that they will not only receive money but also have obligations,” she stated.
Call for Local Government Involvement
Mendoni also pointed out that a programmatic agreement is a viable means of funding such organizations. However, she expressed disappointment at the lack of proposals from the regional and local authorities to support the museum through such an agreement.
“I have not seen from either the region or the local municipality a proposal for us to conclude a programmatic agreement and support the Museum. If this comes as a demand from the local community, through its organized bodies, with a financial contribution from them as well, I assure you that the Ministry of Culture will not remain uninvolved,” Mendoni concluded, according to APE-MPE.
