Pontikonisi, Natural rock formation in Corfu, Greece
Pontikonisi is a small cypress-covered rocky islet situated in the Chalikiopoulos lagoon off Corfu's coast. An ancient Byzantine church sits atop its highest point, while aircraft regularly pass overhead on their approach to the nearby airport.
According to legend, the islet represents the ship of Odysseus, which Poseidon supposedly turned to stone during the hero's return voyage to Ithaca. The Byzantine church was built in the 11th century, showing the religious importance of the place during that period.
The tiny island holds a Byzantine church that visitors can still enter today, reflecting the spiritual life of the region. The thick cypress grove gives the place a meditative character that attracts both pilgrims and curious travelers.
Visitors reach the islet by regular boats departing from Kanoni or Perama piers nearby. The crossing is short and offers good views of the lagoon and surrounding landscape along the way.
Swiss painter Arnold Böcklin drew inspiration from this islet for his painting series 'Isle of the Dead,' which he created in several versions. These artworks later became famous, showing how this place fascinated artists from distant lands.
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