Kefalonia Maps

Kefalonia (also spelled Cephalonia) is the largest of the Ionian Islands, located in the Ionian Sea off the western coast of Greece. The island covers 303 square miles and has a population of approximately 35,000 residents. Argostoli serves as the capital and largest town, situated on the southwest coast on a peninsula extending into Koutavos Lagoon. The town was completely rebuilt after the catastrophic earthquake of 1953 that destroyed most buildings across the island.

The second major town, Lixouri, is located on the Paliki peninsula across the bay from Argostoli and is accessible by a frequent ferry service. Sami on the east coast serves as a major port connecting the island to mainland Greece and Ithaca. The north features the scenic Fiskardo, one of the few villages that survived the 1953 earthquake with its Venetian architecture intact, now a popular tourist destination. Other significant settlements include Poros in the southeast and Agia Efimia on the east coast.

Kefalonia's terrain is dominated by Mount Ainos (also Enos), reaching 5,341 feet and forming the Ainos National Park, home to unique black pine forests and the endemic Cephalonian fir. The mountain provides habitat for the rare Cephalonian wild horses. The island features dramatic landscapes, including spectacular beaches. Myrtos Beach on the northwest coast, with white pebbles and turquoise waters surrounded by steep cliffs, is considered one of Greece's most beautiful beaches. Melissani Cave, near Sami, contains an underground lake with a partially collapsed roof creating stunning light effects. Drogarati Cave, also near Sami, features impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

The island is associated with the myth of Odysseus, though Ithaca is traditionally considered his kingdom. The Archaeological Museum of Argostoli displays finds from Mycenaean through Roman periods. The Monastery of Agios Gerasimos, dedicated to the island's patron saint, is an important pilgrimage site. Assos, a small village on the west coast, features a Venetian fortress and colorful houses on a narrow isthmus. Kefalonia gained international fame as the setting for the novel and film "Captain Corelli's Mandolin." The island's economy is based on agriculture, particularly wine production, olive oil, and tourism. Kefalonia Airport provides international connections during summer months.

The Facts:
Region: Ionian Islands.
Capital: Argostoli.
Cities: Argostoli, Lixouri, Sami, Erisos, Eleios-Pronnoi, Leivatho, Omala, Pylaros.
Population: ~ 35,000.
Area: 303 sq mi (786 sq km).