Old Vlachata, Kefalonia Travel Guide

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Explore the poignant ruins of Old Vlachata in Kefalonia, a village frozen in time since the devastating 1953 earthquake. A unique historical experience.

Explore the haunting ruins of Old Vlachata, a village near Sami, Kefalonia, destroyed by the 1953 earthquake. Wander through the remains of homes and churches, offering a glimpse into the island's pre-earthquake architecture and a poignant reminder of a vibrant past.

A brief summary to Old Vlachata

Sami, 280 80, GR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old Vlachata.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the soft lighting for photography.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven and rocky.
Bring water, especially during the summer months, as there are no facilities on site.
Consider visiting during the Saristra Festival in August to experience the village come alive with music and art.

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Explore Old Vlachata on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Old Vlachata, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Sami, Old Vlachata is approximately a 2 kilometer walk. Head west from the Sami harbor along the main road. After about 1 kilometer, turn right onto the road towards Karavomilos. Continue for another kilometer, then follow the signs to 'Saristra Festival' to reach Old Vlachata. The walk is uphill and takes approximately 30 minutes.
Public Transport

Take a bus from Argostoli to Sami. Buses run regularly, and the journey takes about 30 minutes. From Sami, you can either walk to Old Vlachata (approximately 2 kilometers) or take a local taxi for a small fee. Bus fare from Argostoli to Sami is approximately €3.
Taxi

Taxis are available from anywhere in Kefalonia to Old Vlachata. The fare will depend on your starting location; expect to pay between €20 to €40 for the trip from Argostoli to Old Vlachata. A taxi from Sami to Old Vlachata will cost around €10.
Driving

From Argostoli, head northeast on the E65 road towards Sami, approximately 26 kilometers away. Once in Sami, follow the signs for Old Vlachata or 'Saristra Festival'. The landmark is located just outside the village of Sami. Parking is available near the site.

Discover more about Old Vlachata

Old Vlachata, located on a hillside near Sami, is a historical landmark offering a unique and reflective experience. This once-thriving village was tragically destroyed by a devastating earthquake in 1953, leading its inhabitants to abandon their homes. Today, the ruins stand as a testament to the island's resilience and a window into its past.As you wander through the site, you'll encounter the remains of houses, churches, and public buildings, showcasing the Eptanissian style of architecture common in the Ionian Islands. The village was once home to a diverse population, including wealthy merchants, nobles, and villagers, reflected in the varied architecture. Facades of buildings, walls, streets, wells, and stone ovens are still visible, with greenery adding to the atmosphere.Old Vlachata provides a tranquil setting with stunning views of the surrounding hills and the Ionian Sea. It's a place for quiet contemplation and photography, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. In the second week of August, the village comes alive with the Saristra Festival, a contemporary arts festival that celebrates the village's history and heritage.