Description of the attraction
Argostoli is the largest city and capital of Kefalonia Island (one of the Ionian Islands). The resort of Argostoli is the main port of Kefalonia and is located in a picturesque bay.
Argostoli became the capital of the island in 1757 after the population of the old capital, Agios Georgios (also known as Castro), moved from the mountainous terrain to a well-protected natural bay. This provided an opportunity for residents to establish strong trade links and led the city to prosperity and economic growth. Argostoli became one of the most important strategic ports in Greece. A cozy town with many magnificent buildings of the Venetian era, it was thoroughly damaged during a strong earthquake in 1953. Argostoli was rebuilt, but, unfortunately, most of the beautiful architectural structures have not been restored.
An important historical monument of Argostoli is the Drapano Bridge, erected during the period of British rule, in 1813 by the Swiss engineer Charles de Beausse. The original structure was made of wood, but in 1842 the bridge was completely rebuilt in stone. Approximately halfway parallel to the bridge in the water on a stone pedestal rises an obelisk, on which from the time of its foundation there was a commemorative plaque with the inscription "To the glory of the British Empire!" But in 1865, a year after the end of British rule, the plaque mysteriously disappeared. The obelisk is to this day an important symbol of the island.
In Argostoli, it is worth visiting the most interesting Archaeological Museum, as well as the Museum of History and Folklore, located in the basement of the City Library. In the vicinity of the city there is one of the most beautiful caves in Greece - Melissani with a picturesque underground lake and the Drogarati cave with stalactites and stalagmites of rare beauty. An important local attraction is the ruins of the Venetian castle of St. George (the former administrative center of the island), 7 km from Argostoli.
Today, modern and cosmopolitan Argostoli is renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches and comfortable hotels.
You should definitely take a walk along the very beautiful promenade, paved with multi-colored pebbles and decorated with palm trees. The central square of the city - Plateia Valianu - has the shape of a square, along the perimeter of which there are many excellent restaurants, cafes and bars. This square is a favorite place for walking and recreation, both among locals and guests of the city. Lithostroto pedestrian street, the city's main shopping street with excellent shops, is also popular with tourists. On Cabanos Square there is a clock tower, from the top of which you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
