Ithaca - the Island of Odysseus
Ithaca, the fifth-largest island among the Ionian archipelago, spans approximately 96 square kilometers. Legend has it that the island derived its name from its first inhabitant, Ithacos, the son of Poseidon and Amphimele.
Steeped in myth and history, Ithaca gained prominence through the epic adventures of its legendary king, Odysseus. Renowned for masterminding the ingenious Trojan horse, Odysseus played a pivotal role in the fall of Troy, immortalizing Ithaca in tales of heroism and cunning.
Despite relentless archaeological endeavors, the fabled capital of Odysseus' realm remains elusive. Seismic upheavals, echoing throughout its history, have obscured traces of the Homeric city, mirroring the tumultuous narrative of neighboring Ionian isles.
Nestled amphitheatrically around a sheltered bay lies Vathy, the capital and primary port of Ithaca. Believed to be the ancient haven of Phorkys, Vathy boasts picturesque charm accentuated by Lazaretto, a tranquil islet steeped in history and adorned with Venetian ruins.
While the island bore the brunt of the devastating 1953 earthquake, meticulous restoration efforts preserved its architectural heritage. Notable landmarks include the resplendent Cathedral of the Presentation of the Virgin, adorned with intricate wood-carved iconostasis, and the birth home of Odysseus Androutsos, a revered figure in the Greek War of Independence.
Journey into the island's cultural tapestry through the Archaeological Museum, showcasing a trove of artifacts spanning epochs. Delve into literary treasures at the Cultural Centre's library, boasting rare editions such as the Odyssey and the Iliad in Japanese, alongside timeless works by St. Athanasios dating back to 1686. Indulge in serene coastal retreats at idyllic beaches like Minymata, Skinos, Yidaki, Phylliatro, and Sarakiniko, near Vathy.
How to get to Ithaca:
Embark on a voyage to Ithaca via Patras, with the journey spanning 219 kilometers from Athens. Patras Harbor offers frequent ferry connections to Vathy, Ithaca, via Sami to Kefalonia. Alternatively, Astakos on the Greek mainland provides daily ferry services to Vathy, complemented by a regular bus link to Athens. Ithaca remains accessible through ferry and fast boat routes connecting it to neighboring islands of Kefalonia, Lefkada, and Meganissi.