Zakynthos
Greek island in the Ionian Sea, known for its history and tourism.
In Greek mythology, the island was named after Zacynthus, son of the legendary Arcadian chief Dardanus. The island is a tourist destination with an international airport served by charter flights from northern Europe.
- nickname
- Fiore di Levante (Flower of the East)
Lore & Background
Zakynthos appears in Homer's Iliad and Odyssey, with its first inhabitants said to be Zacynthus and his men. The island participated in the Trojan War and is listed in the Homeric Catalogue of Ships. The island supplied Athens with tar, dredged from a lake using myrtle branches, which protected trireme hulls from rot and decay.
Reader's Guide
Zakynthos holds significance as a historically strategic Ionian island, mentioned in Homeric epics and involved in the Peloponnesian War as an ally of Athens, providing valuable tar for the Athenian fleet. Today, Zakynthos is a tourist destination known for its fertile plains, sandy beaches, and agricultural products such as olive oil, currants, grapes, and citrus fruit.
Did You Know?
- The island supplied Athens with tar, dredged from a lake using leafy myrtle branches tied to poles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zakynthos?
Zakynthos is a Greek island situated in the Ionian Sea, ranking as the third-largest of the Ionian Islands. It is also widely known by its alternative name, Zante.
Where does the name Zakynthos come from?
Greek mythology credits the island's name to Zacynthus, the son of Dardanus, a legendary Arcadian chieftain. This mythological origin is how the island received its name in the first place.
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