1 | Ancient times
From Cape Lefkatas (or Kavos of Kyra or Kavos of Niras or Kavos Doukato), it is assumed that the island of Lefkada took its name. There was built the Temple of Apollo Lefkata, while there is now the Ducato Lighthouse.
This cape is one of the most famous rocks of antiquity. In ancient times (1200 BC) they made sacrifices to placate the gods and the spirit of The Tempest. Later (400 BC) they replaced the victims with convicts who gave them chances of salvation. Before they were thrown into the rock, birds and wings were bound around their bodies for a smoother landing. If the convict got away with it, they'd spare his life.
The previous worship on the Rock was replaced by the sanctuary of Lefkas Apollon, known throughout the ancient world since Apollo was also a Marine God, protector of sailors. Every year there were celebrations with a Panhellenic character, probably in early spring. Apollo is attributed to jumping from the rock as a means against the torturous erotic passion.
2 | The Legends
The place is particularly impressed with the myths it hides and is known mainly for suicides for erotic disappointments. The most famous “suicide” is of Sappho, the poet of Love from Lesvos, thanks to which Kavos was also named “Kavos or Pidima Kyras”. They say the poet jumped on the sharp rocks out of desperation for her love for Feonas.
According to legend also, at Apollo's instigation, Aphrodite fell on the rocks in order to heal the unbearable pain from Adonis's death. But as a goddess, she emerged healed.
3 | The history of the Lighthouse
The lighthouse (Ducato) was built and operated for the first time in 1890.
The height of the tower is 14 meters and its focal height 70 meters. During the 2nd World War, the lighthouse remained off, and in 1945, in the context of reconstruction of the Lighthouse Network, was re-opened as under supervision. In 1953, suffered severe damages due to the devastating earthquake in the Ionian islands, and although the reconstruction work started the same year, were completed in 1956. In 1982 it was electrified and operates like this until today.
4 | Location
Cape Lefkatas is located in the southernmost point of the island. White steep rocks with a height of 60 meters above the waves of the June Sea, which cause even today awe, form this monument of nature.
The nearest beaches are the world-famous beaches of Porto Katsiki and Egremni, which are 7 and 8 km away respectively. The nearest village is Athani which is 8 km away.
Lighthouse of Lefkas from Pardalo Katsiki on Vimeo.
5 | Access
Athani, where Yades Villas are located, can be your starting point not only for the western beaches of the island, but also for the Lighthouse of Lefkata.
Starting from Athani driving on asphalt road towards the south, you pass in 5 miles of the intersection for Porto Katsiki beach and 10,6 km you find the sign of the Archaeological Service in the Temple of Apollo on your right. This is where the dirt road starts.
Among aromas, on your right slowly emerges the wild landscape with steep rocks. The Green Bay of Vasiliki appears unexpectedly on your left. In front of you, about half the way - covering a total of 4.5 km-lies the lighthouse and Cape Lefkata.
Leave your vehicle behind the lighthouse rock, where the dirt road ends, and climb a small alley to the top of the Cape.
Extra Tip: Prefer to arrive there at sunset to admire the sunset overlooking Ithaca and Kefalonia. The experience is unprecedented.
Sources: www.golefkas.gr www.touristorama.com www.faroi.com yf.hellenicnavy.gr www.in.gr