Sightseeing

Meganissi, a green island in the Ionian Sea with rich natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, hides unique sights that combine myth, history and religious tradition. From the legendary Cave of Papanikolis, where the historic submarine was hidden during World War II, to the mysterious Cave of the Cyclops that evokes memories of Homer’s Odyssey, the island enchants every visitor. The tour ends ideally at the Monastery of Agios Ioannis, which stands imposing and serene, offering views and spiritual peace. A trip to Meganissi is an experience that combines nature, history and tradition.

Sightseeing suggestions - Tourist Guide

Cave Papanikoli

It is the largest sea cave in the world and is located on the southern beach of the island. Its name comes from the submarine “Papanicolis”, which is said to have used the cave as a base during World War II. Even today, due to its size, it offers shelter to boats and sailboats in case of bad weather. It is 120m long, 60m wide, narrowing as you go inside to reach 23m. The entrance is very wide, but the depth of the cave is not visible, as most of the cavern turns to the right. Its ceiling in the centre reaches 30m and its total area covers 3,800sq.m. Every year it attracts visitors to admire the splendour of its natural beauty. Surely, one of the most magnificent destinations to swim in the world.

Monastery of St. John

The small monastery of Agios Ioannis the Baptist, is built on the pebbled beach to the west of Meganissi. It may not have any great frescoes or special architectural features to show, but it has a long history. Without being fully confirmed, tradition says that it was founded before 1477. It is said to have been destroyed by pirates who threw the icon of the Saint into the sea which was recovered in the nets of a fisherman.

In 1800 the monk Ioannis Patrikis, from a rich family and very beloved both in Ithaca and in Meganissi, who visited it often, sent a nun to rebuild it. It is said that this nun, with the help of the Meganissiotic Vassilis Politis, was constantly working to achieve her goal, even going as far as the Tsar of Russia to collect the necessary money. In the end she succeeded. The monastery was rebuilt and the nun stayed there until her death.

Cave of the Cyclops

The cave of Cyclops, in Kalopoulos Bay, above Spilia and 50m above sea level, is one of the three candidates for the confirmation of the well-known Homeric myth.

The cave has been known since ancient times, while tradition says that it was used by Cyclops Polyphemus as a shepherd’s hut.