Kefalonia

Kefalonia, also known as Cephalonia, is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea and the largest of the Ionian Islands. It forms part of the Ionian Islands regional unit of Greece, with Argostoli as its administrative capital on the southwestern coast. The island’s economy is supported by tourism, agriculture, and fishing.

Geographically, the interior of Kefalonia is mountainous, with Mount Ainos rising to about 1,628 meters. The coastline is varied, featuring long sandy shores and secluded coves. Popular natural and cultural sites include Myrtos Beach, Assos village, Fiskardo, and Sami. The Melissani Cave and the Drogarati Cave near Sami are notable underground formations that attract visitors.

Historically, Kefalonia has been part of various states and empires, including ancient Greece, the Roman and Byzantine periods, and later the Venetians. It united with Greece in 1864 along with the other Ionian Islands. A major event in the island’s modern history was the 1953 Kefalonia earthquake, which caused extensive destruction in Argostoli and surrounding areas and led to a long period of reconstruction.

Economically, Kefalonia relies heavily on tourism, supported by its beaches, caves, and scenic villages. Agriculture remains important, with olives, grapes, and olive oil as well as Robola, the island’s notable white wine. Cultural and architectural features, such as the Venetian-era townscapes in Fiskardo, reflect its historical influences and contribute to its appeal as a travel destination.

Access to Kefalonia is via Kefalonia International Airport near Argostoli (IATA code EFL) and by ferry connections from mainland Greece to ports such as Patras and Kilini, as well as to other Ionian islands. The island’s population is in the tens of thousands.