The Byzantine Museum in the centre of Zakynthos Town is not only the largest on the island, it also has a special significance for the locals. This is because when the town was destroyed by an earthquake in 1953, many valuable art treasures were also irretrievably lost. The artefacts that survived can now be seen at this museum — a true treasure trove of Zakynthian identity. Art from several millennia is gathered here — from Byzantine carvings to paintings by important Greek painters.

Museum Zante Island

On Bochali hill above Zakynthos Town lie the ruins of ‘Kastro’ castle that resemble a large turtle shell: knobbly, defiant, and old — as if covered with green fluff. It was built in the 15th century by the Venetians, who gave the island the name ‘Fior die Levante’ (Flower of the East). In the peaceful park, only the massive fortifications still act as a reminder of how embattled the island once was. You can access the ruins via a steep wooded footpath or by car. Highlight: the panoramic view of the Skopos peninsula and the town centre of Zakynthos where modern life reigns.