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Ancient Krani: A Glimpse into Kefalonia's Mycenaean Past

Discover Ancient Krani: Explore Cyclopean walls, uncover Kefalonia's history, and enjoy breathtaking Ionian Sea views.

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Explore the ruins of Ancient Krani, an important city-state in Kefalonia dating back to the 7th century BC. Wander through the remains of Cyclopean walls, marvel at ancient Greek engineering, and enjoy panoramic views of the Ionian Sea.

A brief summary to Ancient Krani

  • EO Argostoliou Samis, Cephalonia, 281 00, GR

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes and long pants to protect yourself from the uneven terrain and prickly shrubs.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities available at the site.
  • Combine your visit with a hike in the nearby hills for panoramic views of Kefalonia.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If driving from Argostoli, take the EO Argostoliou Samis road heading east. Continue for about 20 kilometers, passing through Lassi and Svoronata. Look for signs directing you to Ancient Krani; the site will be on your left as you approach Sami. Free parking is available near the site.

  • Public Transport

    Take the KTEL bus from Argostoli to Sami. Check the latest timetable at the KTEL bus station in Argostoli as schedules may vary. The bus journey takes approximately 30 minutes. From Sami, you can walk to Ancient Krani (about 2 kilometers, a 25-minute walk) or take a taxi. A taxi from Sami to Ancient Krani costs approximately €10-15. Bus tickets from Argostoli to Sami typically cost around €2-€4.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Argostoli. A taxi ride to Ancient Krani takes about 20-25 minutes and costs approximately €25-€35, depending on traffic. Confirm the cost with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Ancient Krani

Nestled in the hills near Argostoli, Ancient Krani offers a captivating journey into Kefalonia's rich history. This archaeological site showcases the remains of a once-thriving city-state, with its origins tracing back to the Mycenaean period. As one of the four city-states that formed the Kefallinian tetrapolis, Krani held significant political and economic power, controlling the western part of the island from the 5th to 2nd century BC. The most striking feature of Ancient Krani is its Cyclopean walls, constructed in the 7th or 6th century BC. These massive walls, built with enormous stone blocks, exemplify ancient Greek engineering and offer a glimpse into the architectural prowess of the era. The term "Cyclopean" refers to the mythical Cyclops, one-eyed giants believed to have possessed the strength to build such impressive structures. Walking along the remnants of these walls, visitors can admire the intricate details and marvel at how perfectly aligned the stones are. The walls once protected the ancient town of Krani, which overlooked the Koutavos Bay. Today, the site provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the azure waters of the Ionian Sea. In addition to the Cyclopean walls, Ancient Krani features other archaeological remains, including ruins of buildings, a Doric temple dedicated to Demeter, and chamber tombs. These remnants offer further insights into the life and culture of the ancient inhabitants of Krani. While exploring the site, wear comfortable shoes and long pants to protect your legs from prickly shrubs. Consider visiting early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.

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