Lefkada Town

Very particular citadel and capital of the island, Lefkada City, albeit small, contains some interesting attractions that are worth a visit. Arriving here, you will first of all realize that you are not in a Greek city with its classic bright white architecture. During its existence, the city has been the victim of frequent earthquakes, which have demolished most of the pre-existing buildings. Especially after the last ones, which took place in 1948 and 1953, Lefkada Town was almost completely rebuilt.

However, something remained from previous centuries. Wandering around the historic center, you will have the opportunity to visit some churches from the 16th and 17th centuries. The church of St. Spyridon, the church of St. Nicholas and St. Dimitri. The latter two still have internal decorations linked to the tradition of Ionian painting.

Remaining in the religious sphere, the monastery of Panagia Faneromeni is undoubtedly worth a visit. It is located in the western part of Lefkada City, and it is one of the symbolic places of Hellenic Christianity. Even Paul the Apostle went here. Today it presents itself as a modern structure, while maintaining the appearance of the monastery. Inside are preserved religious relics, and there is a small zoo.

Returning to our visit to the historic centre, there are still a couple of significant attractions to visit. The Archaeological Museum of Lefkada, to be able to fully immerse yourself in the history of the island. And, above all, the Santa Mavra Fortress.

This impressive structure is located beyond the bascule bridge that connects the Lefkada island to the mainland. And it is the testimony of the Venetian dominion over these lands. Here, the Serenissima governed almost uninterruptedly from 1684 to 1797. And, as there are examples also in Italy, here too they built one of their fortification and defense systems. Overall, the fortress has been preserved quite well. The imposing ramparts remain clearly visible today, as well as the small church dedicated to Agia Maura and the division of the internal environments, which can be appreciated during the visit. Among the various finds, you can still see some of the cannons that were used for defense by the Venetians. On them you can still see the seal of the producers, the Carlo Camolli Foundry of Bergamo.

But perhaps the most interesting part of a visit to the fortress of Santa Maura is probably the view you have of the capital and the northern coasts of the island. A panorama that stretches for kilometers, offering a wonderful moment of peace.

Finally, in Lefkada City there is a real gem that has to do with its geography. In fact, here is the Lefkada Lagoon. A real naturalistic oasis, internationally recognized for the biodiversity it preserves inside. It is encountered in the northern part of the island, arriving from the mainland. Here, it is possible to devote oneself to birdwatching, being able to admire various species of local birds, including coots, black-winged knights, cormorants and very elegant herons.

After taking the day to visit the island's capital, it's time to enjoy some evening charm too. Lefkada City offers several alternatives to spend a very pleasant time after sunset. Surely the focal point of the city's nightlife is the long road that runs along the seafront, the Aggelou Sikelianou. It is precisely on this stretch north of Lefkada that restaurants and taverns are concentrated for an exquisite dinner As well as pubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink overlooking the sea, night clubs and discos for those who want to fully experience the night.