Kefalonia island’s history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of Mycenaean civilization, including tombs and artifacts. In classical antiquity, Kefalonia was part of the Athenian alliance and later became a battleground for Roman and Byzantine forces. The Venetians ruled Kefalonia from the 16th to the 18th century, leaving a lasting cultural influence still visible in its architecture and customs.
The island also endured periods of Ottoman and British rule before joining modern Greece in 1864. Tragically, in 1953, a massive earthquake devastated Kefalonia, destroying much of its architecture and reshaping its towns. Despite this, the island preserved its unique character, and its resilient spirit is evident in the traditional villages, Venetian castles, and cultural festivals celebrated today.
Kefalonia Island History in Prehistoric Eras
Archaeological findings suggest human presence as early as the Paleolithic era. Caves such as Drakaina near Poros contain traces of early human activity, indicating a hunter-gatherer society. Kefalonia’s strategic location in the Ionian Sea made it a crossroads for trade and cultural exchange in the Bronze Age and after Mycenaean influence getting stronger in the area. Artifacts and structures suggest the presence of Mycenaean civilization, particularly around Sami and Poros.

Kefalonia Island is speculated to be part of the setting for Homeric epics, specifically The Odyssey. Theories suggest that Odysseus’s Ithaca might have actually been part of Kefalonia, though this remains a debated topic. From this period important attraction is the Mycenaean Tombs of Mazarakata and Lakithra, just a few kilometers from Argostoli.
The history of Kefalonia in the period of classical Greece, City-States and Confederation
In classical times, Kefalonia was divided into four main city-states: Krani, Sami, Pale, and Pronnoi. These states operated independently but shared a common cultural identity. Due to its location, Kefalonia was often involved in the conflicts between larger powers, such as Athens and Sparta. During the Peloponnesian War, the island allied with Athens, showcasing its political agency.

The Ancient Krani was well fortified city surrounded by strong walls, the Cyclopean Walls of Kefalonia Island near Razata village are a proof of it.
Kefalonia under Roman Conquest and Influence (187 BCE – 330 CE)
In 187 BCE, Rome conquered Kefalonia Island after a lengthy siege of the city of Sami. The island became part of the Roman province of Achaia, enjoying a level of autonomy while benefiting from Roman infrastructure. Roman rule brought new architecture, roads, and trade networks. Ruins from this era, such as mosaics and baths, reveal a thriving Romanized society that maintained its Hellenic roots.

Today some of the Roman ruins of Kefalonia are belong to the local sights, the most important attractions are in Fiskardo, in Skala and in Sami. Skala is known for a Roman Villa and its mosaics, Sami is the home of Roman Baths and mosaics.
Byzantine Era and Early Christianity in Kefalonia (330 CE – 1185)
Christianity reached Kefalonia by the 4th century. The establishment of early churches and basilicas, such as those in Fiskardo, shows the island’s integration into the Christian Byzantine world. As part of the Byzantine Empire, Kefalonia experienced occasional invasions but generally enjoyed peace. The island was a part of the maritime “theme” (military district) of Cephalonia, crucial in defending the empire’s western borders.
Kefalonia in the Medieval Period and Foreign Dominations
Following the Fourth Crusade (1204), Kefalonia fell under the control of various Western European powers, including the Normans. This period saw feudal governance and the construction of fortresses. In 1500, the Republic of Venice took control, bringing stability after years of conflict. Venetian influence reshaped heavily Kefalonia’s social, economic, and architectural landscape, with the large fortresses of Assos and Agios Georgios.
Venetian Rule and Cultural Flourishing (1500 – 1797)
Under Venice, Kefalonia became part of the Ionian maritime trade network, when olive oil, currants, and wine were primarily exported, enriching local merchants and landowners. Venetian rule brought Renaissance art and education. Italian was used in administration and education, fostering a blend of Greek and Italian culture evident in architecture and local customs. While predominantly Orthodox, Kefalonia had a Catholic minority that was tolerated under Venetian governance, unlike elsewhere in Greek territories under Ottoman rule.

Despite Venetian protection, the island was frequently threatened by Ottoman fleets, causing destruction in smaller settlements. The Kefalonian people resisted through alliances with Venice and other European powers. Kefalonia Island became a critical defensive point for the Venetian Empire on the Ionain Sea, with the defence of its fortresses. The castles and its strategic location protected the island from prolonged Ottoman occupation, distinguishing it from other Greek regions, such as Crete or Rhodes.
One of the most importants castles in Kefalonia was St. George Castle, which was the center of the local administration for a while. The Castle of Assos was also in strategic defence position, this fortress was the largest western castle of the island.
French Occupation and the Napoleonic Wars (1797 – 1809)
With the fall of Venice in 1797, the French took control, bringing ideals of the French Revolution. They abolished the nobility, redistributed lands, and promoted public education. While some locals welcomed the changes, others resisted, leading to social tensions. However, the French built infrastructure and left a cultural impact that influenced the Kefalonian identity.
British Protectorate and the Ionian State (1815 – 1864)
Following the Napoleonic Wars, the Treaty of Paris (1815) established the United States of the Ionian Islands, including Kefalonia, under British protection. The British built roads, schools, and other significant infrastructure: they attempted to modernize agriculture, especially focusing on currant cultivation, which became the island’s main export.

Some of the sights of today were built in this era, such as the Bridge of De Bosset in Argostoli.
A growing desire for union with Greece led to uprisings, especially among Kefalonia’s educated class. In 1864, Kefalonia, along with the rest of the Ionian Islands, was united with the Kingdom of Greece.
Modern Greek State and Early 20th Century (1864 – 1940)
Following union with Greece, Kefalonia faced economic challenges. Many residents emigrated to the United States and other countries for better opportunities. During WWI, Kefalonia suffered economically, but the post-war period saw brief prosperity due to increased currant exports. The Great Depression, however, affected the island significantly.
World War II and Italian-German Occupation (1940 – 1944)
Italy occupied Kefalonia in 1941, establishing a harsh regime. The local population suffered shortages and oppression under the Italian military. After Italy’s armistice with the Allies in 1943, German forces occupied the island. The Italian Acqui Division, stationed on Kefalonia, resisted surrendering to the Germans. This resistance led to a massacre, with thousands of Italian soldiers executed by German troops – a tragedy commemorated by both Italians and Kefalonians, which is known as “Massacre of the Acqui Division (1943)”.

Today the memorial of Acqui Division can be seen near Argostoli. After WWII and the Greek Civil War, Kefalonia faced a period of rebuilding. Economic hardship led many Kefalonians to emigrate.
Post-War Period and the Devastating Earthquake of 1953
One of the most tragic event in Kefalonia history was a massive earthquake, which devastated the island in 1953. The large earthquake of 1953 destroyed the towns and villages of the island, especially the area of Argostoli. Many residents were displaced, and the island faced decades of reconstruction. The earthquake significantly altered Kefalonia’s architecture, as newer, earthquake-resistant buildings replaced traditional structures.

The earthquake of 1953 also destroyed Zakynthos and Ithaka islands, which were also extreme badly affected.
Modern Kefalonia: Tourism and Cultural Renaissance (1970 – Present)
Starting in the 1970s, Kefalonia transformed into a tourist destination, attracting visitors for its beaches, caves, and cultural heritage. Tourism became the backbone of the island’s economy. Despite development, efforts have been made to preserve Kefalonia’s unique environment and heritage sites.
Initiatives focus on sustainable tourism, showcasing the island’s natural beauty and historical landmarks: Myrtos beach, Melissani Cave Lake, Ainos mountain, or the beautiful monasteries are very popular sights of Kefalonia. The beloved tourist resorts of Lassi, Skala, Lourdas are visited by thousands year after year, and we must mention the idyllic villages of Assos, Fiskardo, Agia Efimia also.

Today, Kefalonia is known for its festivals, cuisine, and music, blending Greek and Italian influences. The island’s cultural identity remains strong, celebrating its rich history through events and traditions that honor its storied past.