Discover Zakythos

If there's one thing that characterizes the capital of this beautiful Ionian island, it's its elegance. Buildings and arches of traditional architecture, squares that still retain the warmth of the village and the scent of the island, and a stunning harbor that captivates you from the first moment. This is Zakynthos Town. It is located at the foot of Bochali Hill and is said to have been built in 1953. One of its most beautiful squares, the cobblestone square of Agios Markos, hosts some of the most unique attractions, such as the eponymous Catholic church, the neoclassical building of the Solomos-Kalvos Mausoleum, and the famous traditional clock. Throughout the town, you will encounter wonderful cafes, bars, and traditional taverns, as well as its commercial center with Venetian arches. Walks in Zakynthos Town will never be the same, as around every corner awaits another discovery.

There is no better spot to admire the beauty of Zakynthos than from Bochali. It is an area of exceptional beauty, situated on a hill with lush vegetation. The view it offers is breathtaking, with the city of Zakynthos, the azure Ionian Sea, Mount Skopos, and Marathonisi unfolding on the horizon. Equally impressive is the journey to the highest point of the hill. As you walk through its picturesque alleys, you will encounter wonderful attractions, such as the Church of Chrysopigi and the Castle of Bochali.

The Castle of Bochali is one of the island's characteristic attractions. Preserved from the years of Venetian rule, it is built on the ruins of the ancient acropolis. Many of its walls have remained unchanged over the years, and inside, you will have the opportunity to admire monuments of all kinds, such as stone, vaulted prisons, gunpowder depots, and the central bastion of the fortress.

The Hill of Strani constitutes a significant chapter in the history of Zakynthos and the entire country. It was there that Dionysios Solomos was inspired to write the "Free Besieged," as the cannons from Mesolongi could be heard all the way to the hill. If you visit this important site of Zakynthian history, you will see the bust of the poet, as well as a marble plaque inscribed with: "SOLOMOS HYMN TO FREEDOM MAY 1823." The area is lush green, filled with pine and olive trees, while the view from the hill is enchanting at all times.

The Church of Saint Dionysios plays a leading role in the lives of the inhabitants of Zakynthos as it is the largest church on the island. Its beauty is incomparable, resembling a cathedral, while its interior is adorned with marble columns, imposing chandeliers, and an impressive wooden iconostasis. It is a space with a profoundly mystical atmosphere and artistic aesthetics that inspire every believer to pray. Its bell tower has a tower-like shape, and its height exceeds 40 meters. It is worth visiting as it is one of the most popular attractions on the island.

The Keri Caves are one of the most impressive attractions of Zakynthos, attracting crowds every summer. It is a coastline of unique beauty on the southwestern side of the island, where many caves are concentrated. Access to the site is easy, and swimming amidst such a spectacular sight is truly a pleasure. The waters are azure and deep, and you can explore the interior of the caves by boat. To reach the Keri Caves, you will need to get to the Marathia cape. Although it is a long journey, the scenery will compensate you.

The Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa has a significant history as one of the oldest monasteries on the island. The residents of Zakynthos honor it throughout the year, but especially on August 15th, when Panagia (the Virgin Mary) is celebrated. However, many tourists also include it in their list of sights to visit, as it is a church of Byzantine architecture with rare aesthetics and beauty. The Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa was founded around the 15th century, and to this day, its monastery complex and the temple of Panagia are preserved.

What impresses every visitor to the monastery is the space of the Panagia temple. It is a pure white temple, in the shape of a free cross with a dome, which includes exceptional frescoes and, of course, the icon of Panagia, considered miraculous. Outside the monastery, you can admire the beautiful view that stretches out before you and immerse yourself in the special atmosphere created by nature and the mountain.

If you are a nature lover, Zakynthos will become your favorite island. It is a place with such rich nature that all kinds of trees sprout up throughout its entire expanse. A characteristic tree thriving in Zakynthos is the olive tree. In most villages of the island, there are vast olive groves, filled with trees of great age that produce, still, amazing olives. The residents have a tradition in olive harvesting, which is why olive oil production is a feature that has made them popular throughout Greece. It is worth visiting the olive groves of Zakynthos and learning from the locals the small secrets that make the olive oil we enjoy on our plates so delicious.