The other islands of the group are: Kefallonia, Corfu, Lefkada, Zakynthos, Kythira and Paxi.
The beautiful and quiet Ithaca is famous for being the homeland of Odysseus (Ulysses), Homer’s hero of the epic poem Odyssey.
Ithaca is the land where the faithful Penelope waits patiently during twenty years for her husband to return from the Trojan War.
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Despite his long voyage full of adventures, Odysseus manages to return to his beloved Ithaca, which became after the Odyssey a symbol of the long and difficult voyage of a life time and the joys of it, an idea which Kavafis expressed beautifully in his wonderful poem called Ithaca (Ithaki): |
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" When you set out on the voyage to Ithaca
Pray that your journey may be long
Full of adventures, full of knowledge"
The influence of the story of Ulysses is so vivid till today that theatrical versions of the Homer's poet are frequently played in the Municipality's Theatrical Library.
This wonderful, verdant island is separated from the island of Kefalonia by a narrow canal, only 3 kilometres wide.
The east coast of the island is harsh and precipitous, greatly contrasting with the west coast which is verdant and soft, gently sloping down to the Ionian Sea.
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The interior of the island is quite mountainous, covered with pine forests, cypresses, olive trees and vineyards.
Enchanting coves are perfecting this idyllic landscape, making it a real paradise on earth.
Fortunately, Ithaca has not yet been spoiled by mass tourism, mostly because it is an unknown destination and doesn’t fit the expectations of the people usually looking for exciting night life and large crowded sandy beaches, fully equipped with sun beds and umbrellas. |
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Ithaca is not that kind of island. It is a calm and beautiful destination, ideal for those searching for relaxation, peaceful walks, calm swimming in emerald waters, small single coves boarded by pine and olive trees, and great calm.
Ithaca is an island of pleasure where every one takes its time to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the place.
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The island offers many things to do such as endless walks, visits to the sleepy villages and stopps at the many archaeological sites associated with Homer’s stories.
The whole island is full of magic and beauty, making more clear the great love and pride of Odysseus for his homeland. Ithaca is a wonderful island, fit for the gods themselves. |
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