Old Vlachata: A Village Frozen in Time
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
Local tips
- 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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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