In keeping with the traditions of many island nations, Kefalonia has a unique set of events and festivals to enjoy which can form the centrepiece of any holiday to the island. Here are a few of our favourites:
Dormition of the Virgin
Quite possibly the most bizarre version of this Pan-Hellenic holiday, the Dormition of the Virgin is held in August in and around Markópoulo village church. Numerous small harmless snakes appear around the island during the festival, which are said to be the nuns of a vanished local convent transformed into serpents to avoid being abducted by pirates. The snakes bring good fortune to all who see them.
Ágios Gerásimos Monastery Pilgrimages
A celebration of the patron saint of Kefalonia, Saint Gerasimos, these pilgrimages see devout worshippers journey to an eponymous monastery near Frangáta where the Saint’s holy relics and body are kept. Monks kiss the cloth-covered feet of the Saint, who is removed partially from his habitual sarcophagus and perched in a vertical position.