Sami Acropolis

Kefalonia, Greece

Sami was a powerful fortified town whose ruins are found in Lapitha Mountain, over the current port town. This town was an autonomous and independent state with its own coin inhabited from the Paleolithic Times. A strong and densely populated town with strong fortifications, it was located on top of the cliff. Several references of Ancient Sami are found in Homer's poems (Heliad, Odyssey) when Sami fought in the Trojan War. Though, in 188 BC, Sami lost its autonomy and freedom during the siege from the Romans.

During the Roman times, Ancient Sami flourished again due to the trade development and the increasing population. At that time, they built luxurious houses and public buildings. Excavations have brought to light parts of the citadel built during the Hellenistic Period and some Cyclopean walls situated in Paleokastro and Agioi Fanendes, from where the view is spectacular. The walls included 22 entrances, parts of an ancient theatre and rich tombs that date back to the 3rd century BC. The view from Ancient Sami to the sea and the island is great.

References:

Comments

Your name



Address

Sami, Kefalonia, Greece
See all sites in Kefalonia

Details

Founded: 6th century BCE
Category: Prehistoric and archaeological sites in Greece

Rating

3.8/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Ray Say (2 years ago)
Not much to see, a project that received so much money and was left dead on the ground. Offers a nice View .
Marcus Moody (2 years ago)
If you're looking for hillwalking it's quite pretty, the ruins are pretty dismal for non-historians. Worth a visit at sunset for the views though
Paul Stross (2 years ago)
Very ancient ruins ar the top of a hill. We walked around them but it is best considered as an undeveloped area now.
James Lewis (2 years ago)
Well worth a wonder none there in April when visted
Christian Phillips (3 years ago)
Very little to see but could be an interesting place if done right. Very little parking areas and no information availible. Good walking routes and viewpoints though
Powered by Google

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Historic Site of the week

Santa Maria in Trastevere

The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of the oldest churches of Rome. The basic floor plan and wall structure of the church date back to the 340s, and much of the structure to 1140-43. The first sanctuary was built in 221 and 227 by Pope Callixtus I and later completed by Pope Julius I. 

The inscription on the episcopal throne states that this is the first church in Rome dedicated to Mary, mother of Jesus, although some claim that privilege belongs to the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. A Christian house-church was founded here about 220 by Pope Saint Callixtus I (217-222) on the site of the Taberna meritoria, a refuge for retired soldiers. The area was made available for Christian use by Emperor Alexander Severus when he settled a dispute between the Christians and tavern-keepers.

The church underwent two restorations in the fifth and eighth centuries and in 1140-43 it was re-erected on its old foundations under Pope Innocent II.