Kefalonia

Kefalonia
Matt Sims · CC BY 2.0 · source
Name	Kefalonia
Native name	Κεφαλονιά
Type	Island
Coordinates	38, 15, N, 20...
Archipelago	Ionian Islands
Area km2	781
Highest mount	Mount Ainos
Elevation m	1628
Country	Greece
Region	Ionian Islands (region)
Regional unit	Kefalonia (regional unit)
Population	35,801
Population as of	2011
Postal code	280 xx
Area code	267x0
Licence	ΚΕ

Kefalonia. It is the largest of the Ionian Islands in western Greece, situated in the Ionian Sea. The island is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and distinctive local culture. Its capital and main port is the town of Argostoli.

Geography

The island's terrain is dominated by the limestone massif of Mount Ainos, which is a designated National Park of Ainos and home to the endemic Abies cephalonica fir tree. The coastline is deeply indented, featuring notable bays like Argostoli and Lixouri, as well as world-famous beaches such as Myrtos Beach. Other significant geological features include the underground lake at Melissani and the sinkholes near Drogarati. The island is separated from Ithaca by the narrow Ithaca Strait.

History

In antiquity, the island was known as Cephallenia and was referenced by ancient writers like Homer and Thucydides. It was part of the Roman Empire and later the Byzantine Empire before coming under the rule of various powers including the Republic of Venice, the French, and the British Empire. A pivotal modern event was the Massacre of the Acqui Division in 1943, following the Armistice of Cassibile. The island was devastated by the 1953 Ionian earthquake, which destroyed most settlements. Archaeological sites like the Mycenaean tombs at Tzanata and the ancient city of Krani attest to its long habitation.

Demographics

The population is concentrated in the main towns of Argostoli and Lixouri, with smaller communities in villages like Sami, Fiskardo, and Assos. The island experienced significant emigration, particularly to Australia and North America, following the 1953 earthquake. The predominant religion is Greek Orthodoxy, and the local dialect retains influences from the long period of Venetian rule.

Economy

The economy is primarily based on tourism, attracting visitors to its beaches, villages, and natural sites. Agriculture remains important, with the production of local specialties, Robola wine from the Robola of Cephalonia cooperative, and the renowned Kefalotyri cheese. Maritime activities centered on the ports of Argostoli and Sami also contribute, alongside a growing services sector.

Culture and landmarks

The island has a rich cultural heritage, famously depicted in Louis de Bernières' novel Captain Corelli's Mandolin and its subsequent film adaptation. Key landmarks include the Venetian-era Kastro castle, the monastery of Agios Gerasimos, the patron saint of the island, and the picturesque fishing village of Fiskardo. Traditional music features the mandolin, and annual festivals like the Robola Festival and the August religious processions for Agios Gerasimos are major events.

Transport

The island is served by Kefalonia Island International Airport near Argostoli, with seasonal flights from across Europe. Ferry connections are vital, linking Argostoli and Sami to ports on the mainland like Kyllini and to neighboring islands including Ithaca and Zakynthos. The main road network connects major towns, while a local ferry crosses the Argostoli Gulf between Argostoli and Lixouri.

Category:Islands of Greece Category:Ionian Islands Category:Populated places in Kefalonia (regional unit)