Zante

Zakynthos, often called Zante, is the third-largest island in the Ionian Sea, off Greece's west coast. Known to the Venetians as 'Fiore di Levante'—the 'Flower of the East'—for its lush landscapes, the island offers a blend of lively coastal life and serene, mountainous interiors. From the bustling capital of Zakynthos Town to the dramatic cliffs of its western shores, the island presents a diverse experience for visitors.

Zakynthos Town, the island's capital and main port, is a city reborn. Much of its elegant Venetian and neoclassical architecture was destroyed in the devastating 1953 Ionian earthquake, which measured 7.2 on the Richter scale. The town was meticulously rebuilt with a blend of traditional styles, yet it retains a unique charm and a lively atmosphere, particularly along its waterfront and in its squares.

Ancient Roots and Venetian Flourish

Archaeological evidence suggests Zakynthos has been inhabited since the Neolithic Age. Homer's epics, the Iliad and the Odyssey, mention Zakynthos, stating that the island was first settled around 1500-1600 BCE by Zacynthos, son of the Arcadian chief Dardanus, from whom the island takes its name. Over centuries, it saw various rulers, including the Athenians, Spartans, Macedonians, and Romans, before falling under the Byzantine Empire.

The island's distinct cultural identity began to solidify under Venetian rule, which commenced in 1485 and lasted until 1797. Unlike much of mainland Greece, Zakynthos was spared from Ottoman occupation, allowing a unique blend of Greek and Italian influences to flourish. The Venetians actively encouraged settlement, even relocating Venetian citizens and stradioti (mounted troops of Greek and Albanian origin) to the island. This period saw a significant cultural and architectural rebirth, earning Zakynthos the moniker 'Florence of Greece'. Wealthy families often sent their sons to Italy for education, contributing to a rich literary tradition that produced figures like Dionysios Solomos, Greece's national poet, and Ugo Foscolo, an Italian national poet.

Earthquakes and Resilience

The Venetian era ended with the arrival of the French in 1797, followed by a period of shifting control among the Russians, Turks, French, and British, until it became part of the modern Greek state in 1864. However, the island's most defining modern historical event was the series of devastating earthquakes in August 1953. Beginning on August 8th and culminating in a powerful 7.2 magnitude quake on August 12th, these seismic events, accompanied by fires, destroyed nearly all of Zakynthos Town and caused widespread damage across the island. Only a handful of buildings in Zakynthos Town survived, including the Church of Agios Nikolaos of Molos. The island was largely rebuilt in the decades that followed, with new constructions reinforced to withstand future tremors, reflecting the islanders' enduring resilience.

Begin your exploration in Zakynthos Town, the island's capital. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, Lombardou Street, which forms the backbone of the town and leads to Solomos Square. This large square is home to the Byzantine Museum and a statue of Dionysios Solomos, Greece's national poet. Nearby, Saint Markos Square offers another glimpse into the town's history. Don't miss the Church of Agios Dionysios, the island's patron saint, with its impressive bell tower that dominates the harbor skyline.

Above Zakynthos Town, on Bochali hill, lie the ruins of the Venetian Castle. While mostly walls remain, the site offers panoramic views of the town, the harbor, and the Peloponnese mainland. For natural wonders, a boat trip to the Blue Caves on the northern tip of the island is a rewarding experience. These sea caves are known for the way sunlight refracts through the water, creating an azure glow. Another iconic sight is Navagio, or Shipwreck Beach, with its famous rusty wreck set against towering white cliffs. Please note that due to safety concerns, entering the beach itself is currently prohibited, but boat tours often offer views from the water.

The best time to visit Zakynthos depends on your preferences. For warm, sunny days ideal for beaches, boat trips, and nightlife, head there during the summer months of June to August. Expect active crowds during this peak season. If you prefer milder weather, fewer tourists, and ideal conditions for hiking and exploring, consider the shoulder seasons of April to May or September to October. During these times, the wildflowers are in bloom in spring, and the sea remains warm into early autumn.

Zakynthos International Airport "Dionysios Solomos" (ZTH) serves the island, located approximately 4.3 km from Zakynthos Town. Public buses connect the airport to Zakynthos Town, with routes also available to other popular areas like Laganas and Tsilivi. The official language is Greek, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The currency used is the Euro (€), and most establishments accept credit cards, though carrying some cash for smaller purchases is advisable. While tipping is not obligatory in restaurants, it is appreciated. An efficient road network exists, but road conditions can vary, so exercise caution, especially on unpaved routes. Renting a car, ATV, or motorcycle is a popular way to explore the island.