History & Culture

Zakynthos has been subject to multiple foreign occupations for the biggest part of its history. This is very much evident in the island's rich and diverse architecture, local arts, culture, food and overall tamperament.

Architecture

Zakynthian architecture predominetly follows the Venetian style. There are also a lot of Byzantine and Neo-Classical influences as well as Gothic architecture mainly found around the island's many Bell Towers. Distinctive to the Zakynthian architecture are also the traditional stone houses featuring wood-and-tile-made roofs, sculpted decorative pieces above doorways and windows and wrought iron staircases (internally), balcony rails and gates (externally).