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Kefalonia - The Crossroad of Civilisations
Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian islands, situated to the west of Greece with numerous connections to
and from Patras. It is a famous tourist resort and one of the most attractive islands of all the Ionian islands.
Blessed with unparalleled natural beauty, Kefalonia pulses with wonderful coasts, idyllic sites, fertile plains
and verdurous spots. Picturesque villages with "humble" farmhouses and small beautiful towns with old mansions
contrast beautifully. It is spectacular to experience the sight of green rocks suddenly plunging into deep blue
waters, one of the island's main characteristics.
The island has an irregular coastline and is largely mountainous, rising to c.5,340 ft (1,630 m) at Mt. Aenos,
which in ancient times was crowned by a temple to Zeus. Kefalonia covers an area of 737 s.m and is situated
between the islands of Zante and Lefkada.
Kefalonia has been justly called the island of contrasts: Roman, Venetian and Byzantine ruins, side by side with
famous beaches. The island's history along with the natural beauty of the island, have made it the ideal spot for
holidays it and has been a popular resort since the beginning of tourism.
More info on Kefalonia: http://www.ionion.com/
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Argostoli
Argostoli city, where our conference will be held, is on the south of Kefalonia and it has been the capital of the
island since 1757. It is build amphitheatrically around the big gulf of Koutavos and has a modern port. It is the
` most populated and busy city of Kefalonia.
The waterfront of Argostoli is adorned with palm trees and paved with pebbles, creating a marvelous mosaic.
A trademark of Argostoli is Dovossetos Bridge, built in the 19th century but still intact, that connects Argostoli
to the other end of Koutavos lagoon. It is named after the Swiss general De Bosset, and was completed in 1812, while
midway there is an obelisk, dedicated to those who built it.
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Sami
Sami is the island's largest commercial centre and its harbour is a major gate to Italy and Western Europe.
The hill of Agion Fanenton, at the edge of Sami, is an archeological site where the ruins of the ancient city
lie. The nearby monastery of Agrileon, built during the 15th century, offers a beautiful panoramic view of the island.
A well-known movie, Captain Corelli's Mandolin, was shot on Antisamos beach, close to Sami city.
Nearby Sami, lie the famous caves of Drogarati and Melissani.
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Melissani Lake
Melissani lake exists due to a rare geological phenomenon. At Argostoli, the sea pours into spectacular swallow-holes
and then disappears into subterranean tunnels. This water then reappears at lake Melissani, creating an incredible
semi-underground lake of clear turquoise and indigo water.
A part of the cave's ceiling collapsed during an earthquake, creating the unique spectacle that can be seen today.
When the sun's rays illuminate the 20,000-year old stalactites on the rocky walls, the lake is illuminated with
vivid colors. Short (15mins) sightseeing tours by boat can be taken to the interior of the lake.
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