Family trip to Ithaka Island with children. Ideas on where to go with your child

Ithaka is an ideal island, where you can introduce your child to the work of great Homer. Despite the fact that there is no archaeological evidence of Odysseys reign, who took part in the Trojan war, the island itself coincides with the description made by the poet. Children will definitely love Homer’s «Odyssey». It will help to develop their imagination and teenagers will find various mythological and cultural references in the poem.

Be sure to show the ruins of Alalcomenae ancient city to your child. The remains of the city can be found on the hill above the small village Piso Aetos. Many important historical objects were found there. Its height is dated to the 5-6 the centuries BC. It was assumed that Odysseys lived in the city, but it was later explored that all the findings were found earlier. Small children and teenagers will find this place interesting. The Cave of the Nymphs (known locally as Marmarospili) will interest people of all ages because according to Homer’s poem, Odysseys hid the gifts from Alcinoe at that place. However, there is an opinion that the real nymphs cave was closer to the beach. Now it is covered with the rocks because of the mining works, conducted several centuries ago.

You can also take your child to the Fountain of Arethusa. A swineherd Evmey lived here. He sheltered Oddyseus when he wanted to live on his island and remain unknown. Be sure to show to your child Stavros, one more ancient city in Ithaka. The road to it runs through incredibly picturesque places, so young photographers will be happy to capture amazing views. Stavros can also be a place where Odysseys lived. There was found a building in 2010 which resembles a royal palace. Archaeologists made several important discoveries in Stavros. Some of them are early Helladic citadel and Loizos cave. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Anogi village is the oldest settlement on Ithaka. There is a beautiful Byzantine church, restored in the 12th century. The church is dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin. The village itself will tell a lot about the Ionian Islands. There are not so many inhabitants in Anogi, but they have their own unique dialect and customs. The main attraction of Anogi is Menir, the prehistoric megalithic monuments. These are huge rocks with strange shapes. The strange furrows on their surface give the impression that it is a work of art.

You can acquaint your child with the life of ancient residents of Ithaka in the Archaeological Museums of Ithaka. There are two of them. The first one is in Stavros and the second one is in Vathy. The collection of Vathy museum is rich with bronze weapons, jewellery, ceramics and a large collection of porcelain items. Vathy reached its height during the Venetian reign on the island, so the city itself is a great example of Medieval architecture. If your child will be interested in the recent past of the island, take him to the Folklore Museum of Ithaka.

Active children won't be bored on Ithaka. They can try waterskiing, windsurfing, diving and many other watersports. Moreover, your child can play volleyball or basketball with other children. If your child loves sandy beaches, you should definitely visit Dexa Beach with fine sand, pebbles and crystal clear water or go to Agios Ioannis with golden sand and emerald water. Those who want to find a quiet secluded place can go to Gidaki Beach. Tria and Roboti are remote beaches, a road to these places will be a real adventure for your child.