History of Zakynthos

Ancient Times

Zakynthos, a picturesque island in the Ionian Sea, holds a captivating history rooted in myth and legend. It is said that Apollo, the god of music, would play his lyre beneath the laurel trees, inspiring ancient inhabitants to honor the gods with festivals and games. The island’s name derives from Zakynthos, the son of Dardanus, king of Troy, who, according to Homer, founded the island and established its acropolis. A figure holding a serpent, the island’s symbol, commemorates the legend of Zakynthos freeing the land from a snake infestation. Mycenaean connections are evident in the tombs found in Kampi, showcasing its ties to this ancient civilization. During the Trojan War, Zakynthos was ruled by Odysseus, king of Ithaca, and actively participated in the conflict, later becoming part of Odysseus's territories and contributing to the legendary events following Troy’s fall.

Roman and Byzantine Eras

The Roman period saw Zakynthos as a strategic point for commerce and military expansion. Although initially resistant to Roman rule, the island eventually formed a mutual understanding with the Romans, aiding in the defense against external threats. In the Byzantine era, Zakynthos was part of the Eastern Roman Empire, with its society divided into distinct social classes.

Venetian Flourishing

Zakynthos, or Zante, is deeply shaped by Venetian influence from nearly 300 years of rule (1484–1797). This legacy is evident in the island’s architecture, culture, and traditions. Venetian-style buildings, though impacted by the 1953 earthquake, remain visible, alongside landmarks like the Kastro in Bohali. The Venetians introduced music, particularly the melodic kantades, and fostered the "Heptanese School" of art, blending Byzantine and Italian elements. Religious coexistence flourished, as Orthodox and Catholic traditions harmonized, influencing church designs. The Venetians also left their mark on governance, establishing a feudal system that shaped the island’s social hierarchy, with Italian surnames still prevalent. Today, Zakynthos celebrates its Venetian past through festivals and architecture, preserving this unique cultural fusion of East and West, making it a vibrant part of its identity.Struggles for Independence Following brief French and Russo-Turkish occupations, Zakynthos fell under British control in 1809. It wasn’t until 1864, after years of struggle and the Greek War of Independence, that Zakynthos officially became part of Greece.

The Maritime History and Tradition of Zakynthos

During the Venetian Era (1484-1797), Zakynthos was an important naval station for the Venetian Republic and played a significant role in its naval strategy. Venice, having control over the Ionian Islands, used Zakynthos for the development of its maritime activities, while the island served as a strategic point for controlling the sea routes of the Ionian and protecting commercial interests. During this period, naval activity flourished, and Zakynthian sailors became well known for their maritime skills. Today, Zakynthos preserves its maritime tradition through local maritime education, the maintenance of traditional boats, and participation in naval festivals and celebrations. Zakynthos celebrates its naval heritage with various events and monuments, such as the Zakynthos Naval History Museum (at Tsilivi), which hosts exhibits that depict the history of maritime activities and sailors from ancient times to the modern era.

Modern Resilience

In the 20th century, Zakynthos endured occupation during World War II and a devastating earthquake in 1953, which destroyed much of its architecture. However, the island’s people rebuilt their home, and today, Zakynthos remains a vibrant symbol of resilience and beauty.