Ithaki sightseeing - Places to visit in Ithaki

September 3, 2008

Ithaki is a small island of the Ionian Sea, opposite the western coast of continental Greece. It is near the large island of Kefallonia, from which it is separated by a little strait of sea, 2 km large. It is a mountainous green island with intact nature, clean sea, beautiful sandy beaches and small picturesque gulfs. Far from the great current of tourism, it is a peaceful place that offers quiet and pleasant vacations.

Ithaki Caves

It has caves of mythological and ecological interest, such as the cave of the Nymphs and the cave of Loisos. The cave of the Nymphs, 1 km from the capital, was the site where Odysseus hid the gifts that the Phaeacians gave him. It was also a place of worship in ancient times. The cave of Loisos has a long history, as the ceramic findings of the cave testify. In this cave was a temple, of which today there are only a few remains. The position of the island, near Kefallonia and Lefkada, permits a day trip to these beautiful islands.

Ithaki Architecture

Ithaki has the architecture of all the Ionian Islands. Its white houses have red tile roofs and no other particular local elements.

Ithaki Historical Places

  • The Archeological Museum of the capital, with important findings of the Prehistoric period.
  • The ruins of the ancient City Alcomenes (8th Century BC) in Mount Aetos, to the west of the capital. The inhabitants call it the Fortress of Odysseus. The great archeologist Schliemann, who made excavations in this place, theorized that it was the palace of Odysseus.
  • The ruins of an Ancient Settlement, with findings from the Prehistoric to the Minoan period, at the site of Pelicata, near the village of Stavros. Today archeologists believe that the city of Odysseus was probably here.
  • The Prehistoric Remains, at the site of Marathia, near Perahori.

Ithaki Monasteries

  • The Monastery of Taxiarcon, near the village of Perahori, 2 km from the capital.
  • The Monastery of Panagia Katharon, 10 km to the north of the capital.

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