Situated on the eastern coast of Kefalonia, Sami is one of the island’s most historically significant towns, a place where myth, ancient civilizations, and modern resilience converge. From its Homeric past to its role as a strategic port in times of war, Sami has always been a place of movement—where traders, sailors, and invaders have come and gone, leaving behind layers of history that still whisper through its streets and hills.
Ancient Sami: A City of Power and Myth
Sami has been inhabited since prehistoric times, but it truly flourished during the classical and Hellenistic periods (5th–2nd century BC). It was one of the four major city-states of Kefalonia, with powerful walls, temples, and a thriving port that connected it to mainland Greece and beyond.
According to Homer, Sami was part of Odysseus’ kingdom, making it one of the many contested locations believed to be linked to the mythical Ithaca. While the true site of Ithaca remains debated, archaeological remains in Sami suggest it was a major center of trade and governance in the ancient world. The ruins of Ancient Sami, located just above the modern town, include remnants of massive fortifications, watchtowers, and sacred sites that speak to its past greatness.
Roman Conquest and Venetian Rule
In 188 BC, Sami fell to the Romans after a four-month-long siege, highlighting its strategic importance. The Romans rebuilt much of the town, constructing baths, villas, and roads. The town continued to serve as a key naval and trade hub during the Roman era, though it declined after the empire’s fall.
By the time of Venetian rule (1500–1797), Sami had become a quiet fishing village, overshadowed by Argostoli and Lixouri. The Venetians left their mark through architecture and infrastructure, but the town did not regain its former glory until modern times.
World War II and the Italian Occupation
During World War II, Sami was occupied by Italian forces, who used its strategic location as a naval base. After Italy’s surrender in 1943, German forces took control, leading to brutal crackdowns and executions similar to those in Argostoli. The town suffered deeply, but its people endured, holding onto their traditions and way of life.
The 1953 Earthquake: Destruction and Rebirth
Like most of Kefalonia, Sami was devastated by the great earthquake of 1953. Nearly all of its historic buildings were reduced to rubble, forcing the town to rebuild from scratch. Despite this loss, Sami emerged stronger, transforming into a modern yet charming port town, while still preserving its connection to its past.
Sami Today: A Gateway to Kefalonia’s Wonders
Today, Sami is one of the most visited areas of Kefalonia, thanks to its combination of natural beauty, history, and cinematic fame. It is home to some of the island’s greatest natural treasures, including:
- Melissani Cave, a stunning underground lake tied to myths of nymphs and ancient rituals.
- Drogarati Cave, a vast stalactite-filled cavern estimated to be 150 million years old.
- Karavomylos Lake, a geological wonder where underground waters flow from one side of the island to the other.
Sami also gained international attention when it served as the primary filming location for Captain Corelli’s Mandolin (2001), showcasing its breathtaking coastline and traditional charm.
A Town of Timeless Spirit
From its Homeric past to its Roman glory, from war and destruction to modern-day revival, Sami remains a place where history and nature coexist beautifully. Whether through the ancient ruins above its hills, the mystical caves beneath its surface, or the waves that have carried traders, conquerors, and travelers for thousands of years, Sami continues to stand as one of Kefalonia’s most enduring and fascinating towns.