The Banknote Museum of the Ionian Bank

The Banknote Museum of the Ionian Bank is located in one of the most central parts of the island of Corfu, and in one of the busiest squares of the island, due to the existence of the Saint Spyridon church.

It stands out for its uniqueness in Greece, as well as its importance to be one of the few museums of its kind in the world.

In addition, it is housed in a building that is cosidered to be an architectural masterpiece.

In 1845-1846 the building was erected according to the plans of the leading Corfiot architect Ioannis Chronis. It is speculated that the decoration of the building has been contributed by the instructions of the English founders and owners.The Ionian columns, the facade of the building and the gable that was designed to look like a temple, definitely stand out.

Until recently, the lower part of the building use to operate as a bank branch, and the first floor was the residence of the current director of the bank, where one can now find the banknote exhibition.

In the exhibition, the visitor has the opportunity to see one of the oldest banknotes collection in the world, which was issued in China in 1300 AD.

The first banknotes of the National Bank of Greece issued between 1822 and 1920 are also of exceptional interest, as well as the drafts, specimens and printing matrices of many banknotes issued in Greece.

While the collection contains about 1500 pieces of Greek Banknotes as well as complete series of banknotes of the Eurozone member states in their national currency, which were issued until their withdrawal and replacement by the Euro in 2002.

Despite the importance of the existence of such a museum,the first Museum of Banknotes in Greece, wasnt made in a night.  Its inauguration took place in September 1981.

While, the radical restructuring of the collection within the frames were defined under the appropriate museological specifications and the renovation of the building, took place in 2004.
The same year was to be marked as the 165th anniversary of the founding of Pisteos Bank and Ionian Bank.

The layout of the second floor, that took place in July 2007, allowed the hosting of exhibitions and cultural activities within the building.

Today, there are interesting activities and workshops happening in the building, as well as tours for students and other groups groups. Visitors have reached the number of 7,500-8,000 people per year.

Visit the Banknote Museum according to the listed days and hours.

October 1 – March 31
Wednesday to Sunday: 08:00 – 15:00
Tuesday: Open only for Educational Programs by prior arrangement
Monday: Closed

April 1 – September 30
Wednesday: 09.00 – 14.00 & 17.30 – 20.30
Thursday: 09:00 – 15:00
Friday: 09.00 – 14.00 & 17.30 – 20.30
Saturday: 08.30 – 15.00
Sunday: 08.30 – 15.00
Tuesday: Open only for Educational Programs by prior arrangement
Monday: Closed

Admission is free

The days and hours listed may be subject to change.

You can contact by phone at 266 104 1552 and by e-mail: banknotemuseum@alpha.gr