Cephalonia, Island in Ionian Sea, Greece
Cephalonia is an island in the Ionian Sea in Greece with a jagged coastline and several bays along the eastern shore. The interior shows hilly and forested landscape rising into mountain ranges, with smaller villages scattered between green valleys.
Venetian rulers controlled the island from the early 13th century for more than 350 years, shaping architecture and language. The Ottoman Empire occupied it briefly before French and British administration followed in the early 19th century.
Local residents maintain a tradition of musical festivals featuring kantades, multi-voice songs with Italian influence. These performances take place at weddings and religious celebrations, reflecting centuries of connection between Greek and Venetian culture.
The best time to visit falls between May and September when the weather remains stable and most beaches are accessible. Renting a car helps reach remote bays and inland villages not connected by public transport.
The karst phenomena along the northwest coast create underground river channels that emerge in the sea, mixing fresh water with salt water. Scientists traced this phenomenon in the 1960s using dyes to follow the path of the water.
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