Background

Italian Memorial Akoui: A Testament to Sacrifice

A somber WWII memorial honoring the Italian Acqui Division, brutally massacred on Kefalonia in 1943. A place for remembrance and reflection.

4.6

The Italian Memorial Akoui in Argostoli, Kefalonia, stands as a poignant reminder of the Acqui Division's tragic fate during WWII. It honors the Italian soldiers who perished in battle, were executed, or died en route to detention camps following their surrender to Allied forces and the subsequent German occupation in 1943. The tranquil setting offers a space for reflection on this dark chapter of history.

A brief summary to Italian Memorial Akoui

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby St. Theodori Lighthouse for scenic views of the coastline.
  • Take time to read the plaques and inscriptions to understand the historical context of the Acqui Division's story.
  • Visit the Catholic Church next to the memorial to see newspaper articles and documents related to the massacre.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Italian Memorial Akoui is located on a hill north of Argostoli, approximately 3 kilometers from the town center. From Argostoli, follow the road towards Fanari (St. Theodore Lighthouse). The memorial is situated next to the Catholic Church. The walk uphill takes approximately 45 minutes and offers scenic views.

  • Public Transport

    KTEL buses connect Argostoli to various parts of Kefalonia. Check the local bus schedule for routes that pass near the Fanari area. From the nearest bus stop, follow the road towards the St. Theodore Lighthouse; the memorial is a short walk from there. A single bus fare within Kefalonia typically costs around €2-€3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Argostoli. A taxi ride from Argostoli to the Italian Memorial Akoui costs approximately €7-€10. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Taxi ranks can be found off the main square and by the ferry port in Argostoli.

Unlock the Best of Italian Memorial Akoui

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Italian Memorial Akoui

The Italian Memorial Akoui, located near Argostoli on the island of Kefalonia, Greece, serves as a solemn tribute to the Italian Acqui Division, who suffered a brutal massacre at the hands of the Germans in September 1943. This tragic event, known as the Cephalonia Massacre, saw over 9,000 Italian soldiers killed in battle, executed, drowned, or bombed after the Italians declared an armistice but the Germans refused to accept it. The Acqui Division, consisting of over 11,000 soldiers and officers, had been stationed on Kefalonia since May 1943. Following Italy's armistice with the Allies, the Germans demanded the Acqui Division surrender their weapons. When the Italians resisted, the Germans attacked, leading to fierce fighting. After the Italians surrendered, Hitler ordered the execution of the officers for treason, and thousands of soldiers were killed. Many others perished at sea when the ships transporting them to detention camps struck mines. The memorial, erected by the Italian government in 1978, stands as a testament to the fallen soldiers. Plaques in both Italian and Greek detail the events, names, and locations associated with the massacre. The site offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to reflect on the events of WWII and pay their respects to those who lost their lives. The story of the Acqui Division is also captured in the novel and film *Captain Corelli's Mandolin*, which was filmed on Kefalonia.

Popular Experiences near Italian Memorial Akoui

Popular Hotels near Italian Memorial Akoui

Select Currency