Kefalonia Kampana (Bell) Square

Location: Argostoli

At the ending point of Cobble Street lies the famous Kampana (Bell) Square of Argostoli. For the locals, it holds a place of special significance since it is a symbol of freedom from foreign occupation and resistance to oppression.
The Venetians constructed the square during the Republic of Venice (1500-1797), and since the clock tower with the iron bell (kampana) was the tallest building in the square, the residents named it accordingly. Currently, it is considered a protected monument.
In the center, visitors will also find a small fountain and four impressive palm trees. Until 1910, there was a relief of a handshake on the arch of its entrance. It was the symbol of the monks of the Order of Saint Francis of Assisi - the medieval emblem of Kefalonia.

The square played a notable role, mainly during revolutionary movements. In 1797, the locals burnt Libro d’Oro, the book that the names of noble Venetians were written, signifying the withdrawal of the Venetians and the arrival of the French. Additionally, under British rule, the square was used as a place of torture, giving it the name Flogging Square. It was also of great importance during World War II and the German occupation.

The clock tower was especially significant for the locals before the widely spread commercial use of watches. The bell rang every half an hour, as well as during certain celebrations, both religious and social.
In 1953, the tower collapsed due to a catastrophic earthquake. In 1977, there was a successful effort to gather money to rebuild the tower, and the bell, which somehow remained intact through the earthquake, was placed at its original place. A few years later, a working clock was reinstalled, and the tower was restored to some of its former glory.

An interesting initiative that took place in the bell tower was introduced in 2000. The municipality of Argostoli established a traditional cafe with the goal of providing employment to young locals and disabled people. The workers also created traditional products and sold them on the premises. Unfortunately, the cafe closed down in 2013 due to debt, and the bell tower cannot be entered by visitors since then.