+ Greek Island Kefallonia Page 2
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Keffalonia Page 2

Argostoli, Kefallonoa's Capital and the Lassi Peninsula

greece greek islands ionian kefalloniaBig, busy Argostoli sits on a promatory jutting into Kefallonia's long and narrow bay. The bay's deep waters making it an ideal port town.

Many boats are dry docked here in the winter months.

Originally a smugglers' hideaway, it grew by virtue of the protection from pirates afforded it by the Venetians into a large warehousing port for the export of raisins.

Its narrow traditonal looking streets were actually destroyed by an earthquake in 1953. Post-quake Argostoli received lots of financial help from Kefallonians living abroad and was rebuilt as traditionally as possible under the circumstances. Photos of the destruction and rebuilding are housed in the Historical and Folk Museum. It has a plethora of public buildings grouped around its central square. Platia Vallianou and two of its famous bell towers have been rebuilt.

The Archeological Museum on George Vergoti St. which runs parallel to the harbor, (8:30-3, closed Mon, fee.Tel: 28300) contains many finds from around Kefallonia. Ivory and gold statues, votive offerings to Pan from the Cave of Melissani, coins from the ancient city-states and loads more.

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The Historical and Folklore Museum on 12 Ilia Zervou St. (9-2, closed Sun, fee) is particularly interesting in light of the hints contained therein as to pre-quake Kefallonia. Many pictures, maps, furniture, icons, memorabilia as well as the Venetian's island records are on display.

The only structure to survive Kefallonia's earthquake intact in Argostoli was the British-built Drapanos Bridge. You can see the bridge from the waterfront.

greece greek islands ionian kefalloniagreece greek islands ionian kefalloniagreece greek islands ionian kefalloniagreece greek islands ionian kefalloniagreece greek islands ionian kefalloniaOnce over the bridge, the road passes, on its way to Sami, via the village of Razata where a dirt road leads up to the 7th Century BC ancient city of Krani or Paliokastro (old castle).

Remains of a Doric Temple to Demeter and lengths of the Cyclopean walls are to be seen there.

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