Kefalonia Ancient Acropolis

Location: Sami

The Ancient Acropolis of Sami in Kefalonia was a fortified settlement, a quite powerful one, whose ruins are found in Lapitha Mountain, over the port town of today’s Sami. It was autonomous and independent and had its own currency, inhabited since the Paleolithic Times. A few references to Ancient Sami can be observed in Homer's poems (the Iliad and the Odyssey), as it seems to have participated in the Trojan War. However, Sami was besieged by the Romans, an event that led to losing its freedom.

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Ancient Sami managed to flourish again during the Roman Era by developing its trade relations and through an increase in its population. During the Hellenistic Era, a citadel was built, ruins of which have been discovered in excavations, along with several fortification pieces revealing walls with twenty-two entrances. Research has also brought a theater and various tombs to light, dating back to the 3rd century B.C. The wealth of the citizens is apparent from various elements, such as the marble used in construction and the mosaics that adorned the buildings.

As it is located on an elevated spot, the view from the archaeological site of Ancient Sami is incredible!

How to get there

The Ancient Acropolis is located in Sami Village.

Private transfers: We recommend using an online pre-booked Kefalonia transfer service, which provides transfer by taxi, minibus, or private VIP car and arranging a pickup directly from the airport, port, or your hotel. Alternatively, there's the option of arranging a pickup by a local driver directly at the following numbers: 0030 694 511 8866, 0030 694 530 6145, 0030 699 561 9605, or booking your taxi online.

Car rental: There's the option of renting a car in Kefalonia and picking it up directly from the airport, port, or your hotel. Using a rental car allows visitors to discover the Ancient Acropolis of Sami and many other places of interest in Kefalonia at their own pace.

Public transport: The central bus station of the island is located at Argostoli. There are buses from Argostoli to Sami during the day. Consider that time schedules might change according to the season. Check the official timetables here.
Tip: Since buses don’t always stop at every scheduled stop of their itinerary, our advice to visitors is to inform the driver about their final destination, so that he makes a stop there.