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Ancient Acropolis of Sami

Explore the ancient ruins of Sami on Kefalonia, a historic city-state with remnants of its acropolis, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into its rich past.

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Explore the ruins of Ancient Sami, a once-powerful city-state on Kefalonia, Greece, dating back to the Paleolithic era. Discover remnants of its acropolis, including fortification walls, a theater, and tombs, offering panoramic views of the Ionian Sea.

A brief summary to Ancient ruins

  • Σάμη, 280 80, GR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and requires some walking.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are staying in Sami, walking to the Acropolis is a scenic option. Begin at the center of Sami, walking towards the coastline. Follow the coastal road, then take the uphill path marked for the archaeological site. The walk will take approximately 20-30 minutes and provides beautiful views of Sami and the surrounding area.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Ancient Acropolis from Argostoli, take the KTEL bus to Sami. Buses run regularly, and the journey takes about 30-40 minutes. Check the KTEL Kefalonia website or local schedules for exact departure times. Once in Sami, the ruins are a short 10-minute walk from the bus station. Follow the signs towards the historical site. A one-way bus ticket from Argostoli to Sami costs approximately €3.

  • Car

    If traveling by car, take the main road towards Sami. From anywhere in the Ionian Islands, navigate to the E55 road. Once you reach Sami, follow the signs to the Acropolis of Ancient Sami. The site is located on a hill just outside the town, approximately 1 km from the center of Sami. There is a parking area available near the entrance of the archaeological site. Keep in mind that parking may incur a small fee, typically around €2-€5.

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Discover more about Ancient ruins

The Ancient Acropolis of Sami, located near the modern port town of Sami on the island of Kefalonia, offers a captivating glimpse into the island's rich history. This fortified settlement, dating back to the Paleolithic era, was once an autonomous and independent city-state with its own currency. Sami's strategic location on Lapitha Mountain provided a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside and the Ionian Sea. References to Ancient Sami appear in Homer's poems, the Iliad and the Odyssey, noting its participation in the Trojan War. In 188 BC, the Romans besieged Sami, leading to the loss of its freedom. However, the city flourished again during the Roman era, developing trade relations and increasing its population. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of Sami from the Classical period on the hills of Paleocastro and Agioi Fanentes, where the two acropolis sites are located. Discover remnants of the Hellenistic-era citadel, including fortification walls with twenty-two entrances, a theater, and various tombs dating back to the 3rd century BC. Excavations have also revealed an ancient temple in Alepovouni and four cemeteries. The wealth of the city's inhabitants is evident in the marble used in construction and the mosaics that adorned the buildings.

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