Kefalonia or Cephalonia, Cephallonia, (with two l’s) Cephallenia, Kefallinia, or Kefallonia (with two l’s) is the administrative centre of the Heptanese, a group of small islands in the Ionian Sea to the west of mainland Greece. It is also the largest and most mountainous island of the Ionian. Its natural landscape is unbelievably unpredictable and full of titillating surprises while rare geological phenomena occur on the island. Fir tree-covered mountains with castles, underground lakes, natural caves, sinkholes, beautiful beaches, coves, charming little villages paint a magical picture for all vacationers who choose the islands for their holidays every year.
In the last years, Kefalonia has acquired a solid tourism infrastructure. After the 1953 earthquake which practically leveled the island, the Kefalonians attacked the task of rebuilding with zeal building it to a point where it has become a high-end tourist destination. Thousands upon thousands of tourists visit the island every year amongst them many of the biggest Hollywood stars.
Part of the magic surrounding Kefalonia is its ancient and troubled history which remains very much alive through the forts and archaeological monuments one meets when traveling the island.
Cephalonians are especially hospitable, they love fun and give themselves to song and dance at every opportunity, both of which are an inseparable part of their culture and colorful personality.
The many conquerors that have come through the island have left their mark in the customs, traditions and their peculiar linguistic twist on the island.
If you happen to be on the island in mid-August or around the 20th of October, follow the litanies that take place in honor of St. Gerasimo whom the Kefalonians love and honour especially.