Ταξιδιωτικός οδηγός Zakynthos
Zante sightseeing
the most popular landscapes of island.
The most beautiful beach of Zakynthos and one of the five or six most photographed beaches of all Greece.
Accessible only by sea, it gives you the idea of hugeness and perfection.
It consists of millions of small pebbles with the blue shades of the sea as far as the eye can see, it results unique in its gender and the relict looks like if it was made by an artist.
Navagio
Arriving by caique, the tall lateral walls hide the island till the last minute when out of the blue you get a complete view of the bay.
Waters around Navagio often have electric light blue colour because of the numerous sulphurous caves around the beach and when the sea is rising a large quantity of sulphur radiates, giving the possibility of taking beautiful pictures.
To visit the beach, a part from the numerous tours of the island, it is possible, from the close bay of Porto Vromi or from Aghios Nikolaos, to get the daily taxi-boat offered by the local boats.
We suggest visiting Navagio in the morning since in the afternoon the sea tends to become bigger and may cause problems to get back.
Shipwreck
You can not leave the island without having seen this beach from the panoramic view at the top of the promontory facing the beach itself.
Half way between the villages of Volimes and Anafonitria there is an asphalt road leading to a huge car-park; getting down a few steps you reach a balcony from where you can admire the beach.
19 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Shipwreck View Point
The most beautiful beach of Zakynthos and one of the five or six most photographed beaches of all Greece.
Accessible only by sea, it gives you the idea of hugeness and perfection.
It consists of millions of small pebbles with the blue shades of the sea as far as the eye can see, it results unique in its gender and the relict looks like if it was made by an artist.
Navagio
Arriving by caique, the tall lateral walls hide the island till the last minute when out of the blue you get a complete view of the bay.
Waters around Navagio often have electric light blue colour because of the numerous sulphurous caves around the beach and when the sea is rising a large quantity of sulphur radiates, giving the possibility of taking beautiful pictures.
To visit the beach, a part from the numerous tours of the island, it is possible, from the close bay of Porto Vromi or from Aghios Nikolaos, to get the daily taxi-boat offered by the local boats.
We suggest visiting Navagio in the morning since in the afternoon the sea tends to become bigger and may cause problems to get back.
Shipwreck
You can not leave the island without having seen this beach from the panoramic view at the top of the promontory facing the beach itself.
Half way between the villages of Volimes and Anafonitria there is an asphalt road leading to a huge car-park; getting down a few steps you reach a balcony from where you can admire the beach.
The Blue Caves are one of the most popular and advertised attractions of the island; you can visit them with your own boat or with one of the many organized tours.
The Blue Caves consist of particular geologic formations giving life to a succession of caves along the North-West coast of the island; they start soon after Agios Nikolaos to end near Skinari Cape.
Blue Caves
Their name is due to the particular reflections of the water in the caves and you can visit many of them with a small- medium boat whereas the others are to be visited only by expert swimmers and divers.
Between Agios Nikolaos and Skinari Cape it is possible to reach by car a small mill and from there coming down a hundred steps, to reach the piece of coast where the caves are.
At the bottom of the steps there are some polish rocks, not very comfortable to lie down to sunbathe, that are a good base to start visiting the caves by swimming and to dive.
The boat tours to visit the Blue Caves start from Makris Gialos beach, Agios Nikolaos port and Cape Skinari.
68 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Mga Blue Cave
The Blue Caves are one of the most popular and advertised attractions of the island; you can visit them with your own boat or with one of the many organized tours.
The Blue Caves consist of particular geologic formations giving life to a succession of caves along the North-West coast of the island; they start soon after Agios Nikolaos to end near Skinari Cape.
Blue Caves
Their name is due to the particular reflections of the water in the caves and you can visit many of them with a small- medium boat whereas the others are to be visited only by expert swimmers and divers.
Between Agios Nikolaos and Skinari Cape it is possible to reach by car a small mill and from there coming down a hundred steps, to reach the piece of coast where the caves are.
At the bottom of the steps there are some polish rocks, not very comfortable to lie down to sunbathe, that are a good base to start visiting the caves by swimming and to dive.
The boat tours to visit the Blue Caves start from Makris Gialos beach, Agios Nikolaos port and Cape Skinari.
a scenic beautiful beach from where you can take the boat to the famous beach of the shipwreck.
Porto Vromi Anafonitria Beach
a scenic beautiful beach from where you can take the boat to the famous beach of the shipwreck.
An unusual tower in an important monastery that was founded in 1535.
Between 1549 and 1555, Gerasimos Notaras lived here (later, "Saint Gerasimos", the patron-saint of Kefalonia.)
The construction of the tower started in 1561 (by the Greek monks) to protect the monastery from the pirates.
7 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Monastery of St. George Kremnon
An unusual tower in an important monastery that was founded in 1535.
Between 1549 and 1555, Gerasimos Notaras lived here (later, "Saint Gerasimos", the patron-saint of Kefalonia.)
The construction of the tower started in 1561 (by the Greek monks) to protect the monastery from the pirates.
traditional village with natural well and the most famous ancient olive tree of 3000 years.The mountainous settlement of Exochora or Axochora is well-known since the early 16th century, which is now densely populated and preserves many pre-seismic structures. Exochora has been one of the richest areas in the mountain range of the island.
Its admirable monument is the church - a monument of Saint Nicholas. The time of the foundation of this church, which defied earthquakes of three centuries, still standing and unshaken, is written in its beautiful woodcarved and golden screen, which is an important work of Nikola Vidal.The artworks of this church are a true heritage and legacy of the island's great historical and artistic past. Next to this spacious and tall church is preserved its "single" cute bell tower. The church is located next to the road, in front of a square that has an old plane tree in the middle. This monument is one of the most precious of the island.
Other attractions are:
• The Little Castle at the top of the Alyras hill and
• The old wells.
Exo Chora
traditional village with natural well and the most famous ancient olive tree of 3000 years.The mountainous settlement of Exochora or Axochora is well-known since the early 16th century, which is now densely populated and preserves many pre-seismic structures. Exochora has been one of the richest areas in the mountain range of the island.
Its admirable monument is the church - a monument of Saint Nicholas. The time of the foundation of this church, which defied earthquakes of three centuries, still standing and unshaken, is written in its beautiful woodcarved and golden screen, which is an important work of Nikola Vidal.The artworks of this church are a true heritage and legacy of the island's great historical and artistic past. Next to this spacious and tall church is preserved its "single" cute bell tower. The church is located next to the road, in front of a square that has an old plane tree in the middle. This monument is one of the most precious of the island.
Other attractions are:
• The Little Castle at the top of the Alyras hill and
• The old wells.
Koiliomenos
ancient bell tower.
Damianós Cave
one cave with view the sea.
Keri
traditional village with beaches and the biggest flag of the world.
most famous and popular beach for the youth.The huge beach of Laganas is the most popular and cosmopolitan resorts of Zakynthos located 9 km north of the main town. The settlement lies around the natural bay which is full of sunbeds and umbrellas, toilets and canteens. Plenty of water sports facilities are offered to visitors like beach bars, snacks bars and seaside taverns overlooking the beach. It is the most crowded spot of Zakynthos during the day and especially at night for the numerous pubs and cafes where mostly young tend to explore. The main road of Laganas is boarded by many restaurants, bars and touristy shops and, behind the road, various luxurious hotels with swimming pools and many other facilities can be found. Laganas Beach is protected by the Greek and international legislation as a birthplace of the endangered species of sea turtle Caretta-Caretta and is part of the Greek National Marine Park. The little pine-clad islet of Agios Sostis, located opposite the beach of Laganas, can be reached by a lovely wooden bridge. Source: www.greeka.com
8 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Laganas Beach
most famous and popular beach for the youth.The huge beach of Laganas is the most popular and cosmopolitan resorts of Zakynthos located 9 km north of the main town. The settlement lies around the natural bay which is full of sunbeds and umbrellas, toilets and canteens. Plenty of water sports facilities are offered to visitors like beach bars, snacks bars and seaside taverns overlooking the beach. It is the most crowded spot of Zakynthos during the day and especially at night for the numerous pubs and cafes where mostly young tend to explore. The main road of Laganas is boarded by many restaurants, bars and touristy shops and, behind the road, various luxurious hotels with swimming pools and many other facilities can be found. Laganas Beach is protected by the Greek and international legislation as a birthplace of the endangered species of sea turtle Caretta-Caretta and is part of the Greek National Marine Park. The little pine-clad islet of Agios Sostis, located opposite the beach of Laganas, can be reached by a lovely wooden bridge. Source: www.greeka.com
the turtle island where you can see a turtle caretta caretta.Marathonissi is a small private island in the turtles’ bay close to Limni Kerì’s beach.
Until the second world war the island was lived, today it has neither inhabitants nor buildings.
It is now one of the areas where the CARETTA CARETTA turtles go to breed.
You can visit the island by private boat or by organized tourists’ visits by caique and for the stronger ones there is the possibility to go by canoes and maybe meeting the turtles.
Beach of Marathonissi Pay attention that as the island is inside the Marine Park the anchorages it is not legal.
There are two beautiful beaches: one of pebbles, reachable by swimming from a huge cave, the other one is a large sand area smoothly gliding towards the sea.
Marathonissi
For those who love the sun the sandy beach is the best whereas for those who love snorkeling the pebble one is perfect to visit the cave (on the right to the beach) and other smaller ones or partly submerged full of starfish and concretions.
The island offers no snack bars, electricity or anything that may disturb the turtles; taking this into consideration it is advisable to take food and beverage when going there.
Marathonissi CavesFor those coming with their own boat, we suggest visiting the Kerì Caves, a few minutes by boat from the island along Marathia’s Cape coast.
One more peculiar thing about the island: Zakynthos is famous for the turtles and also for the last specimen of Monacus Monacus seals that populate its shores.
One of those seals chose one of the small caves of Marathonissi as its “Summer residence”, we leave to the more adventurous ones the pleasure to discover it.
39 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Marathonísi
the turtle island where you can see a turtle caretta caretta.Marathonissi is a small private island in the turtles’ bay close to Limni Kerì’s beach.
Until the second world war the island was lived, today it has neither inhabitants nor buildings.
It is now one of the areas where the CARETTA CARETTA turtles go to breed.
You can visit the island by private boat or by organized tourists’ visits by caique and for the stronger ones there is the possibility to go by canoes and maybe meeting the turtles.
Beach of Marathonissi Pay attention that as the island is inside the Marine Park the anchorages it is not legal.
There are two beautiful beaches: one of pebbles, reachable by swimming from a huge cave, the other one is a large sand area smoothly gliding towards the sea.
Marathonissi
For those who love the sun the sandy beach is the best whereas for those who love snorkeling the pebble one is perfect to visit the cave (on the right to the beach) and other smaller ones or partly submerged full of starfish and concretions.
The island offers no snack bars, electricity or anything that may disturb the turtles; taking this into consideration it is advisable to take food and beverage when going there.
Marathonissi CavesFor those coming with their own boat, we suggest visiting the Kerì Caves, a few minutes by boat from the island along Marathia’s Cape coast.
One more peculiar thing about the island: Zakynthos is famous for the turtles and also for the last specimen of Monacus Monacus seals that populate its shores.
One of those seals chose one of the small caves of Marathonissi as its “Summer residence”, we leave to the more adventurous ones the pleasure to discover it.
From the village of Argasi we take the road that leads to the top of the mountain Skopos. The route is quite tyring but the result deserves it, in order for us to admire the astonishing view and visit the Monastery of Virgin Mary the Skopiotissa.
This church was built in 1624. The monastery has been destroyed but in the interior of the church still exist splendid murals. This church differs by far from the other Zakynthian churches. It is the only one with a dome, it is white and resembles to the small churches found in the Aegean islands. Its temple is made of Stone.
The symbol of the Byzantine Empire (Bicipital Eagle) is also impressive. It is signifiable in the floor of the church. The picture of Virgin Mary the Skopiotissa was brought in Zakynthos (Zante) from Istamboul.
Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa
From the village of Argasi we take the road that leads to the top of the mountain Skopos. The route is quite tyring but the result deserves it, in order for us to admire the astonishing view and visit the Monastery of Virgin Mary the Skopiotissa.
This church was built in 1624. The monastery has been destroyed but in the interior of the church still exist splendid murals. This church differs by far from the other Zakynthian churches. It is the only one with a dome, it is white and resembles to the small churches found in the Aegean islands. Its temple is made of Stone.
The symbol of the Byzantine Empire (Bicipital Eagle) is also impressive. It is signifiable in the floor of the church. The picture of Virgin Mary the Skopiotissa was brought in Zakynthos (Zante) from Istamboul.
Vasilikos
a place with many beautiful beaches on the island.
beach of natural spa baths.Xygia beach, is a very smal picturesque beach, with a characteristic smell of sulfur, coming from a sulfureous source found in a cave nearby.
Because the content of the waters in sulfur, the surface of the waters reveals white shaddows, that resembe to grease.
The residents of the area believe that the waters there are healing and are recommended for the treatment of the athritis.
Xigia Beach View
beach of natural spa baths.Xygia beach, is a very smal picturesque beach, with a characteristic smell of sulfur, coming from a sulfureous source found in a cave nearby.
Because the content of the waters in sulfur, the surface of the waters reveals white shaddows, that resembe to grease.
The residents of the area believe that the waters there are healing and are recommended for the treatment of the athritis.
traditional village with Mycenaean tombs and a big cross on the top and at the edge of large flaps.In the village of Kampi, in the top of the rock of Shiza, dominates a huge Cross that was built in the memory of those who lost their life in the times of Bondage. From that point the view is astonishing and it worths we rest in one of the small cafes or restaurants of the area, and enjoy the sunset.
The village has very few permanent residents but a lot of visitors especially during the summertime. The architecture of the village is mountainous, with the main characteristic being the narrow streets and the made of stone houses.
In the area we may visit also the Mycenaean cemetery.
The existence of this cemetery together with other discoveries of the Mycean times, is a proof of the impotant past of the island also in the Pre-historic times.
34 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Kampi
traditional village with Mycenaean tombs and a big cross on the top and at the edge of large flaps.In the village of Kampi, in the top of the rock of Shiza, dominates a huge Cross that was built in the memory of those who lost their life in the times of Bondage. From that point the view is astonishing and it worths we rest in one of the small cafes or restaurants of the area, and enjoy the sunset.
The village has very few permanent residents but a lot of visitors especially during the summertime. The architecture of the village is mountainous, with the main characteristic being the narrow streets and the made of stone houses.
In the area we may visit also the Mycenaean cemetery.
The existence of this cemetery together with other discoveries of the Mycean times, is a proof of the impotant past of the island also in the Pre-historic times.
the natural balcony of Zante town, with fantastic view and next to the Venetian Castle.Bochali it is a lovely and small village at the top of the promontory rising at the back of the city of Zakynthos.
Keeping the sea at your right, once passed the chief town, there is an inner road on the left that goes up. After a while you will see a crossroads and you must turn left going up till you reach Bochali.
Bochali
Reaching the place is very easy and we believe it is really worth especially at sunset or at night when the landscape of the enlighten city and the harbour bay are really beautiful.
In spite of the small dimensions of Castle of Bochalithe village there are different restaurants offering a romantic dinner under the stars.
Bochali is worth visiting even by day to take pictures of the small church of Zoodos Pigi with its Byzantine icons, or of the huge pinewood with ancient Venetian castle.
The castle, partly destroyed by the earthquake that in 1953 devastated the island, must be visited during your holidays even because from there the 360° view allows the visitor to see in one time both coasts of the Island.
95 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Bochali
the natural balcony of Zante town, with fantastic view and next to the Venetian Castle.Bochali it is a lovely and small village at the top of the promontory rising at the back of the city of Zakynthos.
Keeping the sea at your right, once passed the chief town, there is an inner road on the left that goes up. After a while you will see a crossroads and you must turn left going up till you reach Bochali.
Bochali
Reaching the place is very easy and we believe it is really worth especially at sunset or at night when the landscape of the enlighten city and the harbour bay are really beautiful.
In spite of the small dimensions of Castle of Bochalithe village there are different restaurants offering a romantic dinner under the stars.
Bochali is worth visiting even by day to take pictures of the small church of Zoodos Pigi with its Byzantine icons, or of the huge pinewood with ancient Venetian castle.
The castle, partly destroyed by the earthquake that in 1953 devastated the island, must be visited during your holidays even because from there the 360° view allows the visitor to see in one time both coasts of the Island.
Park with indigenous plants and wildlife, as well as a series of ancient stone constructions.
54 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Askos Stone Park
Park with indigenous plants and wildlife, as well as a series of ancient stone constructions.
Helmi's Natural History Museum
National Marine Park of Zakynthos, ΖάκυνθοςMarine
18 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Pambansang Parke ng Karagatan ng Zakynthos
1 ΒενιζέλουNational Marine Park of Zakynthos, ΖάκυνθοςMarine
Zakynthos' Museum
Πλατεία ΣολωμούByzantine Museum of Zakynthos
Small in size, it is the only Catholic church on the island. Next to the Solomos and Kalvos Museum it seems to be one and only building due to the fact that they were built with the same architectural style. It was founded in 1518 as a chapel of the Franciscan monk monastery. Later on it was the cathedral of the Latin of Zakynthos-Kefallinia. Today this bishopric has been abolished and St. Mark only operates in the summer. His original form was particularly imposing and his interior decoration precious. Few of his internal exhibits have survived. After the earthquakes, it was rebuilt in smaller dimensions.
Church of St. Markus
Small in size, it is the only Catholic church on the island. Next to the Solomos and Kalvos Museum it seems to be one and only building due to the fact that they were built with the same architectural style. It was founded in 1518 as a chapel of the Franciscan monk monastery. Later on it was the cathedral of the Latin of Zakynthos-Kefallinia. Today this bishopric has been abolished and St. Mark only operates in the summer. His original form was particularly imposing and his interior decoration precious. Few of his internal exhibits have survived. After the earthquakes, it was rebuilt in smaller dimensions.
Αγιος Διονυσιος
1 Laskareosthe church of the patron saint of the island
Πεντακάμαρο
Venetian bridge
Αυτό το μουσείο αποτελείται απο την κατοικία του Αλεξάνδρου Ρώμα. Πρόεδρος της Βουλής και οργανωτής των Ελλήνων Ερυθροχιτώνων, με το οποίο πολέμησε στις μάχες για την απελευθέρωση των Ιωαννίνων, ο Αλέξανδρος αποτελεί μια από της πιο ιδιαίτερες προσωπικότητες της νεότερης πολιτικής και στρατιωτικής ιστορίας της νεότερης Ελλάδας.
Το κτίριο κατασκευάστηκε τη δεκαετία του 1660 από τον υποπρόξενο της Αγγλίας στην Ζάκυνθο Robert John Geoffrey. Την περίοδο της Αγγλικής Προστασίας (1816-64) χρησιμοποιήθηκε ως κατοικία του Άγγλου επάρχου (Resident) και ήταν γνωστό ως "Ρεζιντέντσα". Το κτίριο αγοράστηκε από τον Αλέξανδρο Ρώμα το 1880 και έκτοτε αποτελεί έδρα της οικογένειας. Από τότε και μέχρι τον Β' Παγκόσμιο πόλεμο αποτέλεσε το κέντρο ενός από τους δύο μεγάλους πολιτικούς σχηματισμούς του νησιού (Ρωμιάνικο Κόμμα).
Το οίκημα αυτό αποτελεί σήμερα το μοναδικό δείγμα αρχοντικού που έχει απομείνει στη Ζάκυνθο μετά τους σεισμούς του 1953, κατά τους οποίους υπέστη εκτεταμένες ζημιές. Μετά το 1955 ανακατασκευάσθηκε μερικώς από τον προηγούμενο ιδιοκτήτη του γνωστό συγγραφέα Διονύση Ρώμα.
Οι μεγάλοι χώροι υποδοχής, οι βιβλιοθήκες με τις σπάνιες παλιές εκδόσεις και οι συλλογές οικογενειακών πορτρέτων, πινάκων, χαρακτικών, όπλων και άλλων αντικειμένων και έργων τέχνης αντανακλούν τις ανάγκες, τη νοοτροπία και γενικότερα τον τρόπο ζωής της παλαιάς αριστοκρατικής τάξης του νησιού.
Αρχοντικό Ρώμα
58 Dionisiou RomaΑυτό το μουσείο αποτελείται απο την κατοικία του Αλεξάνδρου Ρώμα. Πρόεδρος της Βουλής και οργανωτής των Ελλήνων Ερυθροχιτώνων, με το οποίο πολέμησε στις μάχες για την απελευθέρωση των Ιωαννίνων, ο Αλέξανδρος αποτελεί μια από της πιο ιδιαίτερες προσωπικότητες της νεότερης πολιτικής και στρατιωτικής ιστορίας της νεότερης Ελλάδας.
Το κτίριο κατασκευάστηκε τη δεκαετία του 1660 από τον υποπρόξενο της Αγγλίας στην Ζάκυνθο Robert John Geoffrey. Την περίοδο της Αγγλικής Προστασίας (1816-64) χρησιμοποιήθηκε ως κατοικία του Άγγλου επάρχου (Resident) και ήταν γνωστό ως "Ρεζιντέντσα". Το κτίριο αγοράστηκε από τον Αλέξανδρο Ρώμα το 1880 και έκτοτε αποτελεί έδρα της οικογένειας. Από τότε και μέχρι τον Β' Παγκόσμιο πόλεμο αποτέλεσε το κέντρο ενός από τους δύο μεγάλους πολιτικούς σχηματισμούς του νησιού (Ρωμιάνικο Κόμμα).
Το οίκημα αυτό αποτελεί σήμερα το μοναδικό δείγμα αρχοντικού που έχει απομείνει στη Ζάκυνθο μετά τους σεισμούς του 1953, κατά τους οποίους υπέστη εκτεταμένες ζημιές. Μετά το 1955 ανακατασκευάσθηκε μερικώς από τον προηγούμενο ιδιοκτήτη του γνωστό συγγραφέα Διονύση Ρώμα.
Οι μεγάλοι χώροι υποδοχής, οι βιβλιοθήκες με τις σπάνιες παλιές εκδόσεις και οι συλλογές οικογενειακών πορτρέτων, πινάκων, χαρακτικών, όπλων και άλλων αντικειμένων και έργων τέχνης αντανακλούν τις ανάγκες, τη νοοτροπία και γενικότερα τον τρόπο ζωής της παλαιάς αριστοκρατικής τάξης του νησιού.
It is one of the most hidden places and maybe for this reason more beautiful and wild of the entire island.
To get there you have to pass through the mountains village of Agios Leon and from there following the signs, driving down a recently asphalted road running down to the sea and ending in a small square where you can park.
From there getting down a few steps carved in the rock, you reach a real fiord stupefying the visitor for the clearness and colours of the waters.
It is easy to imagine that in this place there are no many tourist facilities, only recently two terraces with loungers and umbrellas have been created but are not always enough for the request.
Porto Limnionas
For those who really care about caves it is worth visiting the first one just getting down the steps; once there and in the water you understand that the cave is to continue … but only for those who love extreme sports.
We suggest to everybody and especially those who have their own boat, to visit Porto Roxa that is only 3 km from Porto Limnionas.
It is another small bay with a slipway to put boats in the water in an exceedingly beautiful part of coast.
90 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Porto Limnionas Tavern
It is one of the most hidden places and maybe for this reason more beautiful and wild of the entire island.
To get there you have to pass through the mountains village of Agios Leon and from there following the signs, driving down a recently asphalted road running down to the sea and ending in a small square where you can park.
From there getting down a few steps carved in the rock, you reach a real fiord stupefying the visitor for the clearness and colours of the waters.
It is easy to imagine that in this place there are no many tourist facilities, only recently two terraces with loungers and umbrellas have been created but are not always enough for the request.
Porto Limnionas
For those who really care about caves it is worth visiting the first one just getting down the steps; once there and in the water you understand that the cave is to continue … but only for those who love extreme sports.
We suggest to everybody and especially those who have their own boat, to visit Porto Roxa that is only 3 km from Porto Limnionas.
It is another small bay with a slipway to put boats in the water in an exceedingly beautiful part of coast.
Kerì Caves, accessible only by sea with private boats or tourist excursions, develop along the promontory of Marathia Cape, in the South-West area of the island.
Along the coast there are many caves which entrances scarcely suffice to get in swimming, others are broad enough to enter directly with a boat.
It is very easy to reach the caves that are surmounted by cliffs where the sea is very deep and as such reachable.
Keri CavesWhile visiting the caves it is possible to stop to swim or sunbathe in one of the many small beaches of Marathia Cape or to reach by boat the Mizitres.
Mizitres are two crags very close to the cliffs that form a small beach of very fine sand reachable only by boat. Admiring them from a close position you can notice that in one of the two crags there is a crack where it is possible to swim and where a lot of starfish live.
Moreover along the coast there are two arches of rock, under the larger one you can pass with the boat.
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Keri
Kerì Caves, accessible only by sea with private boats or tourist excursions, develop along the promontory of Marathia Cape, in the South-West area of the island.
Along the coast there are many caves which entrances scarcely suffice to get in swimming, others are broad enough to enter directly with a boat.
It is very easy to reach the caves that are surmounted by cliffs where the sea is very deep and as such reachable.
Keri CavesWhile visiting the caves it is possible to stop to swim or sunbathe in one of the many small beaches of Marathia Cape or to reach by boat the Mizitres.
Mizitres are two crags very close to the cliffs that form a small beach of very fine sand reachable only by boat. Admiring them from a close position you can notice that in one of the two crags there is a crack where it is possible to swim and where a lot of starfish live.
Moreover along the coast there are two arches of rock, under the larger one you can pass with the boat.
During the first half of the 13th century the Emperor of Nikeas, Theodore Laskaris the 1st, was the founder of the Holy Monastery of Strofadi. As was the custom of byzantine emperors it was dedicated to Jesus Christ. According to the historian L. Zois, the Emperor John Paleologos renovated the monastery, approximately in the year 1440 a.d.
The monastery looks like a castle and inside is the Church, something that is unique for an orthodox monastery. Across the castle there is the Chapel of St George, there lay the grave of the Holy Body of our Saint for a few years. According to Hiotis, in 1530 or 1538, Saracens attacked the monastery and the fathers of the monastery were slaughtered. After this disaster the monastery slowly started to be restored. In 1568 the Zakynthian count Draganikos Sigouros, was named Daniel and ordained Monk of the Monastery of Strofadia. In about 1570 he became Abbot of the Monastery according to the witnesses of the contracts at that time. As Abbot Our Saint took care of various monasteries until death when his dying wish was carried out, to be buried at the monastery of Strofadia on December 17th, 1622.
A few years later the time came for the transportation of the Holy Body, and miraculously the Holy Body was found unharmed. The Holy Body of our Saint was left at Strofadia till the 19th of August 1717, when there was yet another attack from the Moslems who imprisoned and killed the monks of the monastery, except for two monks who managed to hide in the thicket and survive.
The monks took the Holy Body of our Saint to the town of Zakynthos (Zante), where it remains till this very day. Saint Dionysus remains on this island as protector and guardian, granting his blessing to all that ask for it. Together with the Holy Body a part of the monastery of Strofadia was also transported to the town of Zakynthos where it remains till this day. The monastery has a significant library and holy utensils of great value. Sections of the library and holy utensils are not only found at the monastery of Zakynthos they can also be fouind at the Markian library of Venice.
The building of this historic Monastery suffered great damage from a violent earthquake (6.6 on the Richter scale on the 18th of November 1997).
Monis Strofadon
Monis StrofadonDuring the first half of the 13th century the Emperor of Nikeas, Theodore Laskaris the 1st, was the founder of the Holy Monastery of Strofadi. As was the custom of byzantine emperors it was dedicated to Jesus Christ. According to the historian L. Zois, the Emperor John Paleologos renovated the monastery, approximately in the year 1440 a.d.
The monastery looks like a castle and inside is the Church, something that is unique for an orthodox monastery. Across the castle there is the Chapel of St George, there lay the grave of the Holy Body of our Saint for a few years. According to Hiotis, in 1530 or 1538, Saracens attacked the monastery and the fathers of the monastery were slaughtered. After this disaster the monastery slowly started to be restored. In 1568 the Zakynthian count Draganikos Sigouros, was named Daniel and ordained Monk of the Monastery of Strofadia. In about 1570 he became Abbot of the Monastery according to the witnesses of the contracts at that time. As Abbot Our Saint took care of various monasteries until death when his dying wish was carried out, to be buried at the monastery of Strofadia on December 17th, 1622.
A few years later the time came for the transportation of the Holy Body, and miraculously the Holy Body was found unharmed. The Holy Body of our Saint was left at Strofadia till the 19th of August 1717, when there was yet another attack from the Moslems who imprisoned and killed the monks of the monastery, except for two monks who managed to hide in the thicket and survive.
The monks took the Holy Body of our Saint to the town of Zakynthos (Zante), where it remains till this very day. Saint Dionysus remains on this island as protector and guardian, granting his blessing to all that ask for it. Together with the Holy Body a part of the monastery of Strofadia was also transported to the town of Zakynthos where it remains till this day. The monastery has a significant library and holy utensils of great value. Sections of the library and holy utensils are not only found at the monastery of Zakynthos they can also be fouind at the Markian library of Venice.
The building of this historic Monastery suffered great damage from a violent earthquake (6.6 on the Richter scale on the 18th of November 1997).
The most pictresque point in the gulf of Laganas is the pine-cladded isle of Agios Sostis.
This privately-owned small isle is located in the left side of Laganas Gulf. Until 1633 it was linked to the mainland of Laganas, until it was separated by an earthquake.
Today during the summertime the island is connected with the mainland with a large wooden bridge and operates as a café and nightclub. Undeniably it is one of the most picturesque points of the island.
Agios Sostis Port
Unnamed RoadThe most pictresque point in the gulf of Laganas is the pine-cladded isle of Agios Sostis.
This privately-owned small isle is located in the left side of Laganas Gulf. Until 1633 it was linked to the mainland of Laganas, until it was separated by an earthquake.
Today during the summertime the island is connected with the mainland with a large wooden bridge and operates as a café and nightclub. Undeniably it is one of the most picturesque points of the island.
Gerakas is the southern beach of the island and for sure one of the most beautiful.
It consists of a long sand tongue ending in a small promontoryGeraka diving in the sea.
The promontory is very famous since it is entirely made of clay and in the past was used by the tourists to get a regenerating “clay therapy”.
Today, the final part of the beach is closed Gerakasbecause too many people pulled off the clay, making the ridge unsafe.
From May to October for those who would like to wake up before dawn, there is the possibility to assist to the turtles’ eggs hatching and admire tens of specimens trying to reach the sea.
This beach is a protected area of the Zakynthos Marine Park because of the turtles’ choice to go there to hatch, and in addition to the fact that it doesn’t offer any tourist devices the access is forbidden from half an hour before the sunset to half an hour after dawn.
52 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Gerakas Beach
Gerakas is the southern beach of the island and for sure one of the most beautiful.
It consists of a long sand tongue ending in a small promontoryGeraka diving in the sea.
The promontory is very famous since it is entirely made of clay and in the past was used by the tourists to get a regenerating “clay therapy”.
Today, the final part of the beach is closed Gerakasbecause too many people pulled off the clay, making the ridge unsafe.
From May to October for those who would like to wake up before dawn, there is the possibility to assist to the turtles’ eggs hatching and admire tens of specimens trying to reach the sea.
This beach is a protected area of the Zakynthos Marine Park because of the turtles’ choice to go there to hatch, and in addition to the fact that it doesn’t offer any tourist devices the access is forbidden from half an hour before the sunset to half an hour after dawn.
The Domeneghini Tower is situated on the coast of Argasi, once a countryside locale with orchards and rural plantations that today has been transformed into one of the most popular touristic resorts of Zakynthos. At the time of the installation of Venetian rule on the island, towards the end of the 15th century, the region was deserted because of continual pirate attacks. In 1566, the Venetian administration, in its effort to confront this phenomenon, commanded the location of a twenty-men strong cavalry unit in the area. Archaeological research has confirmed no connection between the construction of the Domeneghini Tower and the installation of a cavalry guard at Argasi, an association nonetheless, implied by local chroniclers who assign the construction of the edifice to the mid 16th century. In any case, it is certain that the Domeneghini family, which owned the tower-country manor, settled in Zakynthos right after the fall of Chandax in Crete (1669) and was enrolled in the Libro d?Oro in 1741. To the same family also belonged the neighbouring church of Hagios Theodosios, as well as the adjacent fountain, known as «Solomos Fountain», most probably because of the frequent visits the national poet, Dionysios Solomos, used to make to the country manor of the Domeneghini family. The Tower is inextricably linked to the National Liberation Struggle of 1821. It was there that meetings of the Friendly Society members were held and from this place Theodoros Kolokotronis departed aboard a “aique” boat to launch the revolution in the Peloponnese.
The Domeneghini Tower restoration project included works of masonry consolidation, roof repair, enhancement of the building and its surroundings and conservation of the Venetian fountain, as well as functional restoration of its interior.
Tower Domenegini
The Domeneghini Tower is situated on the coast of Argasi, once a countryside locale with orchards and rural plantations that today has been transformed into one of the most popular touristic resorts of Zakynthos. At the time of the installation of Venetian rule on the island, towards the end of the 15th century, the region was deserted because of continual pirate attacks. In 1566, the Venetian administration, in its effort to confront this phenomenon, commanded the location of a twenty-men strong cavalry unit in the area. Archaeological research has confirmed no connection between the construction of the Domeneghini Tower and the installation of a cavalry guard at Argasi, an association nonetheless, implied by local chroniclers who assign the construction of the edifice to the mid 16th century. In any case, it is certain that the Domeneghini family, which owned the tower-country manor, settled in Zakynthos right after the fall of Chandax in Crete (1669) and was enrolled in the Libro d?Oro in 1741. To the same family also belonged the neighbouring church of Hagios Theodosios, as well as the adjacent fountain, known as «Solomos Fountain», most probably because of the frequent visits the national poet, Dionysios Solomos, used to make to the country manor of the Domeneghini family. The Tower is inextricably linked to the National Liberation Struggle of 1821. It was there that meetings of the Friendly Society members were held and from this place Theodoros Kolokotronis departed aboard a “aique” boat to launch the revolution in the Peloponnese.
The Domeneghini Tower restoration project included works of masonry consolidation, roof repair, enhancement of the building and its surroundings and conservation of the Venetian fountain, as well as functional restoration of its interior.
Alykes village is located 18 km to the north-west of Zakynthos (Zante) town. The area was named after the salt works that used to operate there (Alykes in Greek) to provide the salt the island needed. Alykes nowadays is a widely renowned resort with a great sandy beach, a real tourist magnet during the summer.
One can visit the old (16th cent.) St. John the Baptist monastery nearby. Other nearby sight-seeings worth a visit are the famous Navagio (Shipwreck) and Cape Schinari with its wonderful caves, one with therapeutic waters and the other with spectacular sunlight reflections, making the water change through a kaleidoscope of colors.
Alykes village is very friendly, great for families, built at a flat spot, which is great for bicyclists who can visit the nearby areas of Tragaki and Planos.
If you walk along the beach of Alykes, you will reach the village of Alykanas. It is a small, traditional village built around a church and a small marketplace, surrounded by fertile fields and many farms. The beach there has a very fine sand, and you may also enjoy your favorite water sport (sea-bike or windsurfing).
13 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Alykes
Alykes village is located 18 km to the north-west of Zakynthos (Zante) town. The area was named after the salt works that used to operate there (Alykes in Greek) to provide the salt the island needed. Alykes nowadays is a widely renowned resort with a great sandy beach, a real tourist magnet during the summer.
One can visit the old (16th cent.) St. John the Baptist monastery nearby. Other nearby sight-seeings worth a visit are the famous Navagio (Shipwreck) and Cape Schinari with its wonderful caves, one with therapeutic waters and the other with spectacular sunlight reflections, making the water change through a kaleidoscope of colors.
Alykes village is very friendly, great for families, built at a flat spot, which is great for bicyclists who can visit the nearby areas of Tragaki and Planos.
If you walk along the beach of Alykes, you will reach the village of Alykanas. It is a small, traditional village built around a church and a small marketplace, surrounded by fertile fields and many farms. The beach there has a very fine sand, and you may also enjoy your favorite water sport (sea-bike or windsurfing).
The Venetian castle located in the Mpohalis and just 2 km from the city. The Castle has great historical importance as it inside the Medieval years was located the capital of the island. The exact date that the castle was built is not known.
The walls are of ashlar stone and form resembles the walls of Cretan castles. In 1480 largely demolished by the Turks and was denied the restoration of. Since then to1514, the islanders made several efforts to renovate after each raid or earthquake. The major restoration took place in 1515 with aid of Venice. Then added the cannons and the big gate, the bell of which serves as the town clock. The presence of the Venetians seem even if we observe the third gate, the walls of which bear the "Lion of St. Mark", a symbol of Venice.
The castle housed throughout the city of Zakynthos, administrative agencies and the military. The Venetians created inside the castle rare works of the era, such as an organized sewerage system.
The passage of time and the many earthquakes altered the form of the old city, from which few examples survive today. More specifically, in the area of the castle, visitors can see the stone vaulted prison, the building of gunpowder, the main bastion of the fortress, remains of the sewerage system and ruins of several churches. The route will follow inside the castle is circular.
40 lokal ang nagrerekomenda
Bóchali Venetian Castle
The Venetian castle located in the Mpohalis and just 2 km from the city. The Castle has great historical importance as it inside the Medieval years was located the capital of the island. The exact date that the castle was built is not known.
The walls are of ashlar stone and form resembles the walls of Cretan castles. In 1480 largely demolished by the Turks and was denied the restoration of. Since then to1514, the islanders made several efforts to renovate after each raid or earthquake. The major restoration took place in 1515 with aid of Venice. Then added the cannons and the big gate, the bell of which serves as the town clock. The presence of the Venetians seem even if we observe the third gate, the walls of which bear the "Lion of St. Mark", a symbol of Venice.
The castle housed throughout the city of Zakynthos, administrative agencies and the military. The Venetians created inside the castle rare works of the era, such as an organized sewerage system.
The passage of time and the many earthquakes altered the form of the old city, from which few examples survive today. More specifically, in the area of the castle, visitors can see the stone vaulted prison, the building of gunpowder, the main bastion of the fortress, remains of the sewerage system and ruins of several churches. The route will follow inside the castle is circular.
A small Venetian watchtower on the beach of the village Kypseli (old name Belousi) in Zakynthos. It is close to a similar watchtower, the Vardiola of Tsilivi.
History
About Vardiolas in general
The word “vardiola” originates probably from the word guardiola (a common castle term meaning guard or observatory from the Italian word “guarda”). It is used for the various watchtowers that the Venetians built on the coasts of the Ionian islands. There are vardiolas in Kythira, Cephalonia and Zakynthos. Some of them are included in Kastrologos. Probably, there are many more. We do not know (in this site) if the name “Vardiola” is used for watchtowers in other areas outside the Ionian islands.
The Vardiolas of Zakynthos have a very particular design: small dimensions, strong stone walls with a square-pyramid-shaped roof.
Most of the vardiolas in Zakynthos were constructed during the administration of the Venetian Proveditore (Governor) Claudio Gherardini who held this position during the period 1768-1770.
Venetian Watch Tower
A small Venetian watchtower on the beach of the village Kypseli (old name Belousi) in Zakynthos. It is close to a similar watchtower, the Vardiola of Tsilivi.
History
About Vardiolas in general
The word “vardiola” originates probably from the word guardiola (a common castle term meaning guard or observatory from the Italian word “guarda”). It is used for the various watchtowers that the Venetians built on the coasts of the Ionian islands. There are vardiolas in Kythira, Cephalonia and Zakynthos. Some of them are included in Kastrologos. Probably, there are many more. We do not know (in this site) if the name “Vardiola” is used for watchtowers in other areas outside the Ionian islands.
The Vardiolas of Zakynthos have a very particular design: small dimensions, strong stone walls with a square-pyramid-shaped roof.
Most of the vardiolas in Zakynthos were constructed during the administration of the Venetian Proveditore (Governor) Claudio Gherardini who held this position during the period 1768-1770.
The Venetian aqueduct located in Krioneri Zakynthos town. Today it is a stone fountain in the past but was a stone aqueduct which supplied the whole city with water. Constructed in the 16th century by the Venetians which had occupied the island from 1485.
Venetian Aqueduct
KrionerioiThe Venetian aqueduct located in Krioneri Zakynthos town. Today it is a stone fountain in the past but was a stone aqueduct which supplied the whole city with water. Constructed in the 16th century by the Venetians which had occupied the island from 1485.