Kefalonia

Kefalonia! It is the biggest of the Ionian Islands, an astonishing place full of contrasting beauty, “mysteries” and surprises. Along with Ithaca Kefalonia is a prefecture with a population of 39.448 and extents in 904, 4 square km.

The capital of the prefecture is Argostoli, a modern town of 10,000 habitants. Kefalonia was found in ancient times, during the Palaeolithic era, while during the Mycenaean era had been an important centre. Throughout history and centuries and because of its location Kefalonia was conquered by many nations and was harried by the Crusaders and the Pirates. It was occupied by the Normans, the Venetians and for a short period of time by the Turks and the French. In 1800 after the treaty of Constantinople, the Ionian Islands were recognised as an independent state under the name “Eptanisos Politia”. It was the first independent state with its own oligarchic constitution. Later it was given to the French but after Napoleon’s abdication, it came to British hands. In 1848- 1864 the Radical movement arrived on the scene that, led by Elia Zervos, Gerasimos Livadas, Joseph Momferatos, George Typaldos and many others, formed the fighting core for the island’s independence. In 1864 Kefalonia together with the other Ionian Islands became a full member of the Greek State.

The Balkan Wars as well as World War I & II and the Civil War, had devastating effects on Kefalonia, while a series of four earthquakes that hit the island in August 1953 caused widespread destruction with virtually every house on the island being destroyed. The material damages but mostly the depopulation that followed the disaster disturbed the social and economical life of the island.

Since 1980 the improvement in infrastructure works along with the exceptional natural beauties contributed to the tourist development and many investments in the secondary and tertiary fields of the economy. Now Kefalonia is a modern island offering quality of life to its habitants and visitors. The clean towns and the flowered gardens are identified with the island and appreciable to the visitors.

 

In the summer the Municipalities of the island organise numerous festivals. In the sweet summer evenings wandering in Lithostroto or the square, you will certainly enjoy traditional Kefalonian serenades. Moreover, do not miss Myrtos’ concerts taking place every August with the participation of many famous Greek artists.

Almost all villages are organised traditional feasts with the participation of local bands, kefalonian wine, local dances, like Balos and Divaratikos. It is worth visiting Robola’s Feast in August at Fragata, the wine feast at Matzavinata (Lixouri), the stock- farmers’ feast at Themata (Pylaros) and the great celebrations of St. Gerassimos (August, 16 and October, 20) and Virgin Mary’s celebration at Markopoulo (August, 15).

You can also buy excellent olive oil, feta cheese, honey, and a variety of local sweets like mantoles, confeto, nougat, pasteli.
The tall imposing mountains that end in crystal, blue waters, the bright natural colours, and the warm hospitality of the locals will certainly impress you.