ZanteZante, or Zakynthos as is its Greek name, is the southernmost island and third largest in size in the Ionian Sea. It extends over an area of 157 square miles (406 square kilometres). Its coastline stretches along 76 miles (123 kilometres). Zante is currently the home of about 38,000 inhabitants and a popular destination with ardent fans of the Greek Islands. On this page we would like to introduce you to its exciting nature and wildlife, its distinctive cultural identity and the wealth of its mythology and history. In addition, you will find how to access the island, along with useful information, including phone numbers to transport and other services. |
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Nature and WildlifeZante has a mild Mediterranean climate, fairly rainy, yet with lots of sunshine too. This accounts for the sprawling plant life of the island, which also goes by the name of Fiore di Levante (flower of the East). Zante has been blessed with profuse natural beauty: olive groves, pine trees and vineyards on lush hillsides; rugged shores and magnificent, long beaches for swimming (the island counts over 40 beaches, either organised or not); proliferating flora and fauna. |
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The island’s Sea Park at the Bay of Laganas, southern Zante, is committed to the preservation and breeding of the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). The western coasts of the island, on the other hand, act as refuge and breeding grounds for the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus). Both these are endangered species and objects of international care and consideration. |
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Cultural IdentityBirthplace of Dionysios Solomos, the national poet of Greece, Andreas Kalvos and Gregorios Xenopoulos, the hospitable island of Zante has been for years promoting cultural intellect, literature, music and poetry. Notably, it was there that the earliest Hellenic Academy was founded in the 16th century. Zante retains its strong cultural character many years on. Exceptional concerts and outstanding events are hosted on the island every year. The Zakynthian cantada songs are renowned folk couplets with rhyming verses, accompanied by mandolins and string instruments. |
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Mythology and HistoryZakynthos takes its name after its first inhabitant, Zakynthus, son of Dardanus, King of Phrygia. Mythology wanted Artemis, goddess of hunting, and Apollo, god of prophecy, light and music, wandering on the island, spellbound by its beauty. Zante was already known in the prehistoric years. Homer refers to it as Hyliessa (wooded land). It is said that the Zakynthians sided with Odysseus in the fight of the Trojan War. |
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In historic years, Zante saw significant commercial and cultural prosperity, due to the island’s strategic position. Under the rule of the Venetians (1484-1797), Zante gained wealth, gradually evolving into an organised community, with solid town planning and imposing buildings, wide roads and large squares. In 1628 severe social unrest evolved into a social uprising against the dominance of the nobility in the Rebellion of the Populari (the impoverished lower class). This was a milestone in the island’s history. Zante was incorporated into Greece along with the rest of the Ionian Islands on 21 May 1864. On that day the Greek flag was hoisted on the island. |
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AccessBy air During the peak period for tourism (April-October), international charter flights link Zante directly to a number of European cities on a daily basis. The airport of Zante is only 2 miles (3 km) from the capital town, providing fine transport links to and from. By sea By road |
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Useful InformationAIRPORT OLYMPIC AIRLINES FERRYBOAT |
KTEL BUSES SERVICES ON ZANTE |
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30 Anaxagora St. 166 74 Glyfada, Athens, Greece - Tel: +30 210 9631393 Fax: +30 210 9681217 info@thalassa-properties.com |  |