Zakynthos
Zakynthos is a Greek island located in the Ionian Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natural beauty. The island is also renowned for its traditional architecture, blue cypress trees, and vibrant nightlife in the city center. It is also well-known for its history and the presence of archaeological sites and monuments.
The history of Zakynthos
The history of Zakynthos begins archaeologically from the prehistoric era, with the first inhabitants being the Minoan Cretans. The island was then conquered by the Dorians, Athenians, and Spartans. During the Peloponnesian Wars, Zakynthos allied with Sparta.In the 4th century BC, the city of Zakynthos developed culturally and economically. During the Roman period, the island underwent several conquests and changes in indigenous and foreign rulers.
Subsequently, Zakynthos was influenced by the Venetians, who occupied the island in the 15th century and adorned it with palaces, towers, and churches. The Venetians maintained control of Zakynthos until 1797 when it came under the rule of the French Republic.In 1809, the island was occupied by the British and later by the French. In 1864, Zakynthos gained its independence as part of the Greek State. During World War II, Zakynthos suffered significant destruction from German. The reconstruction of the city and the island followed after the war.
Today, Zakynthos is a popular tourist destination, with its natural beauty, beaches, and culture attracting visitors from around the world.
The beaches of Zakynthos
The beaches of Zakynthos offer a plethora of stunning natural beauty. Some of the most popular beaches on the island include:
- Shipwreck Beach (Navagio): It is perhaps the most famous beach in Zakynthos, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and a striking shipwreck resting on its sandy shore.
- Laganas: This beach is known for its sandy coastline and the presence of the endangered loggerhead sea turtles (caretta-caretta), which are protected in the area.
- Tsilivi: A family-friendly beach with calm and crystalline waters, ideal for relaxation and water sports.
- Banana Beach: It is a large sandy beach with dunes, offering opportunities for water sports and sunbathing.
- Agios Nikolaos: A picturesque beach with azure waters, surrounded by rocky cliffs, providing a unique atmosphere.
These are just a few of the beaches you can enjoy in Zakynthos. Each one has its own unique beauty and characteristics that make them special.
Sights in Zakynthos
- Blue Caves: One of the most famous attractions of the island! Waters with a deep blue color, accessible only by boat! Dreamy waters located in the northwestern part of Zakynthos! Their color is a deep blue, in contrast to the turquoise of the rest of the area.
- Marathonisi Beach: The little island of Zakynthos with exotic beauty, visited by the famous loggerhead sea turtle! Marathonisi is a small uninhabited island in the bay of Laganas. Its shape resembles a large turtle. The beach is visited by the famous loggerhead sea turtle.
- Gerakas Beach: Kilometers of sandy shoreline, exotic landscape, warm and shallow waters. This beach is where the loggerhead sea turtle nests its eggs. Gerakas is located in the southern part of Zakynthos and belongs to the National Marine Park.
- Makrys Gialos & Xigia: Two of the most beautiful and unique beaches in northeastern Zakynthos with crystal clear waters and picturesque scenery. Both beaches are relatively deep and mainly pebbled.
- Zakynthos Town: The center of the island! A bustling city with plenty of options for entertainment and dining. Zakynthos Town is an ideal destination for those who wish to be close to cafes, bars, restaurants, and experience the island's culture.
