Zakynthos

Zakynthos / Zacynthos / Zante (Ζάκυνθος)

Zakynthos is the most southerly of the Ionian island group and one of the jewels of the all of the Greek Islands. Lush, green, with a coastline filled with sandy beaches and spectacular cliffs, it is a very popular tourist destination. Also known as Zante, the island is well equiped for tourists, but getting away from the crowds is not difficult and the the history, fauna and geography of the island are engrossing.

The island’history is similar to that of the other Ionian islands. It is mentioned by Homer in the Iliad and the Odyssey. Over the centuries it was conquered by the Macedonians, Venetians, French and Turks, all having influence over the island which is apparent in the architecture and layout of the towns. In 1864, along with the rest of the Ionian Islands, it became a part of Greece.

Zakynthos Town is large, expansive and beautiful, though the ramshackle port doesn’t even start to hint at it’s splendour. The earthquake of 1954 nearly did massive amounts of damage to Zakynthos Town. Thankfully, it has been rebuilt faithfully to it’s former state, keeping thewide streets, large squares, winding arcades. The main attraction is the Church of Agios Dionysos, patron saint of the island. There are relics of the saint on display as well as breathtaking frescoes. Nearby, the Church of Agios Nikolas can be found, which was partially destroyed in the 1954 earthquake, but it has been restored to its former glory.

Beaches and resorts are what Zakynthos does best, and the main resorts are found on the south and east around Laganas Bay. The island’s north is more taken up with agriculture.

One of the most famous beaches in the world is found on the island at Navagio, or as its known, Shipwreck Cove. Access is gained to it by boat, and because of its popularity time on the beach is limited, but a visit to this specular cliff lined beach is a necessity. The Blue Grotto near the island’s northern cape is also worth visiting,

It is worth remembering that the island is home to the endagered loggerhead turtle and the Mediterranean monk seal and there are marine parks around to help rebuild the numbers of these amazing animals. The turtle is the unofficial emblem of Zakythos and there is no shortage of souvenirs with the turtle emblem for purchase.