 Over the years there have been many reports and comments on social media about strong smells of tar/oil in the Keri area of Zakynthos. Some people have also noticed that the smells occur around the time of earthquakes.
Experts are say the smells emanate from local pitch (tar) wells/ tar springs, situated in the Keri area. We know the pitch (tar) wells/ tar springs have existed for many centuries, if not longer, as there is a lot of historical/written evidence, going back hundreds of years, that fully supports the experts. This evidence not only confirms that not only are there pitch wells on Zakynthos, but that these pitch wells have been active for a very long time, and that the tar from them was actually a very valuable resource for islanders. So, what are pitch wells? Sometimes known as tar pits, or asphalt lakes, pitch wells are a natural geological phenomenon that’s created when petrol or oil travels through cracks in the earths lower layers, eventually making its way to the surface. The petrol/oil is forced to the surface by low pressure, either by natural phenomenon or helped by seismic or geological activity in the area. It’s thought that the more activity the area has, the higher the rate of petrol/oil flow. Sometimes these petrol/oil leaks are small resulting in tar pits or wells, on other occasions they are much larger and entire lakes are formed. When the liquid reaches the surface, lighter parts of the liquid vaporise leaving behind the substance we know as bitumen. It’s this product that causes the smell similar to tar or oil. A petroleum-based hydrocarbon, bitumen, is very viscous, sticky and black in colour, and it’s a very common product that’s found all over the world. Bitumen is also known as asphalt, a name first given to it around 625 B.C by the Ancient Greeks who called it “Asphaltos” meaning secure. It was also used in Babylon for building roads and by Romans for aqueducts, bathhouses and reservoirs. Past accounts of Bitumen by Travellers to Zakynthos Many travellers visiting Zakynthos, from Herodotus to Gentlemen Travellers of the 1800’s, have been fascinated by Zakynthos’ pitch wells leading these visitors to write interesting accounts about locating and investigating them. Herodotus Histories, mentions Herodotus’ trip to Zakynthos – sometime before his death in 425 B.C – and he noted that he saw a lake and wells on the island that produced bitumen. He is quoted as saying: “for I myself saw pitch drawn from the water of a pool in Zakynthos. The pools there are numerous; the greatest of them is seventy feet long and broad, and twelve feet deep. Into this they drop a pole with a myrtle branch fastened to its end, and bring up pitch on the myrtle, smelling like asphalt, and for the rest better than the pitch of Pieria. Then they pour it into a pit that they have dug near the pool; and when a fair amount is collected there, they fill their vessels from the pit. Whatever falls into the pool is carried under the ground and appears again in the sea, which is about a half a mile distant from the pool.” Herodotus, Histories, Book four Between the 1600’s and 1800’s, many European travellers also wrote about visiting pitch wells in the same area of Zakynthos, and it seems that they were a popular destination. One description from the 1800’s describes a beautiful plain of three leagues [approx. nine miles] in size surrounded by mountains. The writer described the air as noxious with ability to cause fevers and other illness. At the centre of the plain he found two “bitumen springs” around 200 paces apart. He described the springs as boiling and bubbling with a strong smell. Remarkably though, it was also noted that water surrounded the bitumen itself, and this water was perfectly cool and clear, even on the hottest of summer days. The water in one spring was sweet tasting , in the other spring it was salted. The traveller noted that the bitumen was most violent during earthquakes and many islanders he met at the time took this as proof that the bitumen and earthquakes came from the same source. Another account from a European traveller, written hundreds of years ago, noted that Zakynthian residents used the highly sought after bitumen for a multitude of purposes. The bitumen in the islands springs often overflowed, and locals would visit them with their buckets to collect the substance. It was stored in leather bags or casks and sold on to be exported for use in many products. Islanders also used it to coat boats and roofs and some say it was even used for ladies medicine! Sailors with scurvy were reportedly given water to drink from the one of the wells with an aim to remedy the illness. The bitumen was also dried in the sun and used as cement. So should we worry about pitch wells and the tar they produce? Those who have, in the past, studied the bitumen springs and seismic action on the island, have noted that these springs and the often-felt earthquakes, were not the only indications of seismic activity. Close to the shore at Xigia there is a spring of sulphurous water. The smell from it is powerful and in the past many locals used it to cure livestock illness. Deep caverns located near Cape Skinari, and at Keri have also showed signs of a white oily substance that would rise to the surface and settle on top of the water, previous visitors thought it was another form of bitumen, but it this was never confirmed. The sulphurous water, and oily substances are all known “side effects” of seismic activity. Nowadays the original pitch lake that Herodotus described, more commonly known as Limi Keriou is now just marshland, but there are still some pitch wells visible, the most notable being Herodotus Spring to the west of Limi Keriou, close to Herodotus Studios and Herodotus supermarket. Active pitch wells is nothing new for Zakynthos, it’s an interesting geological phenomenon that’s been going on for a very long time and it part of the islands varied history. The island has coped with it for a very long time and residents used to live side by side with it, even utilising the bitumen and making money from it, something that may likely continue on for a long time yet to come.
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 Many holidaymakers and visitors to Zakynthos will, at some point, come across stray cats and dogs or an animal that needs welfare assistance. Greece in general is a nation of animal lovers and whilst there are negative stories that are sometimes reported about animals – as it is all over the world – a majority of Greek people adore their animals and treat them well. In some areas of Greece however, especially on the islands, the number of strays animals is higher than normal. Strays are always very easy to spot, thin, in poor condition, possibly with injuries or with ticks, and fleas.
On Zakynthos, there are several ways to help with strays, including ways of reporting them, how to get in touch with a vet or help or get in touch with dedicated groups and volunteers who help to feed, look after and foster/re-home strays. If you would like to help the volunteers with your time, donations, re-home an animal or ever have any concerns about a stray cat, dog or another animal then you can get in touch with volunteers as listed below. Please bear in mind that all of the volunteers are extremely busy and will do their best to help as soon as they can, but they are very overstretched with the amount of work they have to do, so please be patient. What tourists should and shouldn’t do when finding a stray animal 1. NEVER bring a dog or cat into your apartment. It is unfair to allow a stray to become attached to you because the day will come when you have to leave and will have to put them back on the street. In other words, just when they’re made to feel loved and secure, they’re abandoned … double betrayal! (Please note there is a list of feeding stations at the bottom of this post, or ask in report or on the Facebook page) 2. If you want to feed the strays, do so away from the hotel you are staying at. If the dogs/cats know they will be fed, they will hang around, which is something hotel owners and staff do not appreciate. The dogs/cats risk being hit, poisoned, or even driven into the mountains where they are left to starve. This is NO exaggeration!. If you feed dogs/cats, don’t hang around, but leave while they’re eating. Don’t let the animals become too attached to you, as they will miss the affection you give them after you leave. 3. Don’t let the dog(s) / cat(s) you have befriended follow you around. It may seem flattering, but when you leave, they will once again have to fend for themselves. 4. If you find an injured animal, a tourist information office (or the owner of the hotel where you’re staying) should be able to give you details of where a vet can be found or if there’s an animal welfare organisation you could contact. However, taxi drivers (in general) are not willing to put an animal into their cars, nor are they allowed on public transport (buses etc). 5. If you are upset by the plight of animals, don’t ignore it, thinking that there’s nothing you can do to make a difference …. make a fuss … be vocal!! In addition, on your return home, please complete the ‘complaints’ form – see below for details. Advice for Tourists: https://greekanimalrescue.com/advice-for-visitors-to-greece/ Firstly you can get guidance and support from the Greek Animal Welfare Fund – How to report animal cruelty: https://www.gawf.org.uk/advice-and-welfare/how-to-report-animal-cruelty/ Report issues to the police If you witness any animal cruelty please report it to the Police, ensure you do it in person, with as much information as possible. (You will need to take your Passport with you if reporting animal cruelty to the Police.) To contact Zante Town police station: [email protected] Zante Town +30 26950 22100 Or phone Katastari station +30 26950 55068 Report issues to the island authorities The Zakynthos Municipality is responsible for all strays. You can report any strays to the Mayor of Zakynthos via this link, photos, a description and location are useful to add: https://www.dhmoi.gr/en/municipalities/zakinthos/ or call on +30 26953 61300 Contact a vet! You can also contact two vets on the Island: Konstantina Souli – https://www.facebook.com/konstantinasouli.vetcare Spiros – https://www.vrisko.gr/…/2hcj4gd6cc2b0f_71__77e2jdccjdg5c All vets will treat a stray and, unlike in the UK, you will not pay a consultation fee. You only pay for what treatment is given, which in essence is nominal compared to the UK and other EU countries. We get very many messages and emails during the tourist season, therefore, if you are really worried about an animal, please take it to the vets yourself as we cannot be all over the island to assist. Dog owners be advised! Due to the new laws if you allow your dog to wander free on the streets, there is a chance of it becoming lost or being picked as a “stray.” It will be taken to the vet for checks and microchip to find its owner. As you are required by law to have your dogs, sterilised. If they are not chipped or sterilised then you will receive a fine before your dog is returned to you. Zakynthos Volunteers/Charities (In alphabetical order) There are also animal welfare charities and volunteers you can support or donate to:
Feeding stations and general volunteers As well as the charities mentioned above, there are also feeding groups across the island. Many of these locations will also accept donations of food or money too. These feeding groups work independently and alongside the Charities when necessary. These feeding station volunteers don’t receive any donations from the Charities, it’s all done from donations, and they often use their own money to keep the strays in these areas fed. The work all of these volunteers do is vital, and they have helped thousands of Zakynthos cats and dogs, but they do it on a voluntary basis with and all costs are handled via donations. Please contact them directly if you feel you can help, or would like to give a stray animal from Zakynthos a forever home.  Island Radio 88.6 transmits from the Greek island of Zakynthos. It’s the only English speaking radio station in the Ionian, broadcasting on 88.6 FM. It’s also available to listen to online. The station was founded in 2005, and is currently run by Station Manager, and breakfast host, Bobby Gee. It operates all year round and is supported by both loyal listeners and island businesses.
Bobby Gee presents the Breakfast show, a mix of music from the sixties to the present. Other weekday shows include dance music and R&B, Penny Draper music mix, mix from the 1960’s to the present, classic rock, northern soul, reggae and ska and the Peter Lee, all 80’s Sunday. A full schedule is available on their facebook page. You can listen live here: Islandfm.gr The station is also availble vis your Alexa, just search Island Fm Zante Tourists love Island Radio 88.6, and many enjoy listening to it online once they return home from their holiday, but it’s locals who value it the most. Not only does the radio station play music, local information is passed on to residents via the radio station, and many interviews are conducted by hosts about important issues affecting the island. Bobby Gee regularly hosts many guests on his breakfast show, which is sponsored by Plessas market. The guests have included staff from the British Consulate in Zakynthos to talk about the types of services that the British Consulate offers to both tourists and expats. Bobby has also interviewed several British Ambassadors to Greece, on a number of topics relating to the island and tourism. Bobby has also interviewed numerous special guests, about a variety of topics relevant to both locals and visitors, and our very own Louise Inzk, from the Zakynthos Informer, has joined the radio on a number of occasions to talk about island history, tradition and culture, as well as sharing important festival information, and Greek Traditions. Island Radio 88.6 is vital to the island of Zakynthos, it’s great place for island business to advertise, residents get to hear the latest news and information, and tourists have a link to the island they love no matter where they are in the world. The station is stronger and more popular than ever, and as of this week it has increased its signal strength to match its sister radio station Stigma. As Island Radio 88.6 continues to grow in popularity, it hopes to be able to bring more great music, information and interviews to the island it is proud to call home. Island Radio 88.6 presenters and staff would like to thank everyone for their continued support.  KTEL offers visitors to Zakynthos a great bus service which includes intercity routes (travel options across Greece), as well as local routes throughout the island. The bus is a cheap, easy way of getting about and many destinations are covered, which is a great transport option for those who are unable to hire a car or can’t afford to take a taxi.
A breakdown of all routes is listed below, but if you need more concise timetables for all the listed journey’s, whether it be local or intercity, they can be found on the KTEL website. If you wish to contact them directly, their phone number is + (30) 26950 22255 or + (30) 26950 42656 or you can email them on [email protected] Local Island Bus Routes There a number of local summer routes that KTEL operate on Zakynthos. Most go to the main bus station in Zakynthos town, located ΙΑΤΡΟΥ ΜΟΘΩΝΑΙΟΥ, Zakinthos 291 00, but most routes across the island also leave from the main town going back out to other areas, so it is possible to see most of the main resorts or areas of the island by bus. Current island bus routes are as follows: Argassi to Zakynthos Town (Bus Station) Argassi to Basiliko to St. Nicolas to Porto Roma Alykes to Zakynthos Town (Bus Station) Kalamaki to Zakynthos Town (Bus Station) Laganas to Kalamaki Laganas to Zakynthos Town (Bus Station) Porto Roma to Zakynthos Town (Bus Station) Tsilivi to Zakynthos Town (Bus Station) Volumes to Anafonitria and Maries Zakynthos Airport to Zakynthos Town (Bus Station) Intercity Bus Routes (Zakynthos to Mainland) If you fancy getting off the island, KTEL operate bus trips to Athens, Patras and Thessaloniki, all great places to visit where you can experience a different type of Greece. The cost of the bus to Athens is €28.60 and the buses run four times a day on outbound and return, seven day a week. The cost of the bus to Patras is €8.70 and the buses run four times a day on outbound and three times a day return, seven days a week. The cost of the bus to Thessaloniki is €54.40 and the buses run even Thursday and Sunday on the outbound and Monday and Friday on the return. **Please note that none of the above intercity routes include the price of a ferry ticket and these need to be purchased separately.  In Zakynthos the only official radio taxi network that is in operation 24hours a day, seven days a week, working in conjunction with the Government services and is not privately operated is The Radio Taxi Association of Zakynthos, or known as ZANTE TAXI.
The association has the largest fleet on the Island therefore enabling them to cover the Island quickly and affordably. All drivers are experienced and are locals, whom most speak fluent English, whilst others can speak languages such as German and Italian. As they are locals, they can also act as a tour guide taking you to the most popular destinations or to local hide outs that are not seen by the tourist trade. The association has affordable prices not just to and from pick ups but they offer services such as private guided tours (VIP) and wedding cars at very affordable prices as well. Each car by law can take up to 4 adults and a small child, so please remember this when booking a taxi if you have more than four adults. They also have available the 12 seater luxury van, Mercs and more for wedding cars. How to find a Zakynthos taxi As you arrive in Zakynthos it will be easy to recognize the Radio Taxi Association of Zakynthos. Just look for the silver-grey coloured cars with their logo on the doors. Please note they are not the blue and yellow signs which can be confusing. Whether it is at the port in Zakynthos town or at Saint Nicholas in Volimes, there will always be a taxi waiting for the ferry arrivals. When arriving at the airport you will notice the taxi rank right outside the doors to your right as you walk out. The association has their price list shown at the rank, as they have standard fares that are not priced by the kilometer. The association has their taxi ranks available in Zakynthos town, all the tourist resorts around the Island and of course, is on call twenty-four hours a day. All you need to do is call 26950 48400, the call centre is open twenty four seven during the summer months. What to avoid...To combat pirating the association has made their prices available, not only at the airport taxi rank but they have representatives within the arrival hall handing out leaflets with their prices printed on them. Look out for the girls with the red and white ZANTE TAXI T-shirts, who are always with a smile and ready to welcome you to Zakynthos. What does a taxi cost? The price list is also available at hotels, restaurants and to any other person who would like the list. As you get into the taxi the price list is located in the seat pockets of the taxi, leaflets are also available, just ask the driver. As pirating has become a huge problem over the years it is important for our guests to be aware of what to look out for and of course the price that you should be charged before getting into any vehicle that is used for transport. For this reason Informer would like to point out a few things…. 1) All radio taxi cars are silver grey in colour (THEY DO NOT COME IN ANY OTHER COLOUR) Except for the van, please ask for number plate when booking. 2) all radio taxi cars are equipped with a radio that is connected to the operation control headquarters. (Thus if a problem arises it can be solved immediately) 3) all radio taxi cars are chipped and are connected to the GPS tracking system that is connected to headquarters. . (ensuring safety for the driver and passengers) 4) all radio taxi cars have the taxi number plate starting with the letters TAZ followed by a four digit number e.g TAZ 0000. (Avoid getting into pirate operated cars) 5) all radio taxi drivers are local (Zakynthian) NOT of any other nationality. 6) all radio taxi cars are insured for liability. (We’ve mentioned this as with pirating you are not insured for liability if you have an accident.) How to book a taxi You can quite easily find a radio taxi at one of the ranks around the Island, however if you would like peace of mind, especially during the busy period, you may wish to book ahead. The call centre is open twenty-four hours on 26950-48400 or if you have a mobile then perhaps you would like to call them on 6977- 573020, What’s Up. and 6945 844830 CU. The operators are fluent in English and are able to help you with any of your queries. For those who would like to book before they visit our Island they can do so by booking online through https://www.zantetaxi.gr/ Child seats are available but you must request IN ADVANCE. Some taxis are already equipped with child booster seats but upon booking please make sure you request in advance. If you have a problem The radio taxi association of Zakynthos prides themselves for their service and for their hospitality, however if there is any complaint, they would ask you to call the centre on the above numbers to make your complaint, thus ensuring that their customer service is always at a high level. If you're not sure where to go? The radio taxi association of Zakynthos can help you plan your tour of the island. On their website there are a few possible choices to choose from, you can even ask them to take you to places where the locals go, to swim, eat and for entertainment. Whatever your needs don’t be shy just ask, you’re dealing with locals and after all who knows best their Island home! PRICES FOR 2024 Please click on their website→ TAXI PRICES  When thinking about driving around Zakynthos, the first thing that comes to mind is whether one should hire a car, motorbike or a quad. So, here are a few pointers that might help you decide.
There are many rental companies offering the best for any type of vehicle you are looking for, from a small run around to four wheel drives, mini buses, motorbikes and quads. Some may like to pre pay for their rental, especially during peak season but often the best deals are made face to face, direct with the rental places themselves. It is advisable to search for the best price and there are certainly a lot of offers available. Regulations Driving licences National driving licences conforming with the model in Annex 9 of the 1949 Convention or in Annex 6 of the 1968 Convention or with the European Communities’ model are accepted. Visitors may ride mopeds or motorcycles of any cylinder capacity or drive private cars in Greece if they have reached the minimum age required in their country of residence. A foreign driving licence does not entitle the holder to drive in Greece until the age of 18years old. Rental companies request that the driver be over the age of 21 years old. International Driving Permits (1949 or 1968) are recognised. To answer some of those questions…. Do I need an international Driver’s licence? NO… if you belong to the EU. As you have been issued a European Licence then you are able to drive anyway in Europe, yes including GREECE. Some will accept the licence of the country that does not belong to the EU without any problems, eg:- Australian, New Zealand, HOWEVER….., If you get in an accident and don’t have the International Driving Permit you’ll be in serious trouble with the Greek Police. Greek Law requires it and if you can’t produce it you could possibly be detained until you come up with the cash to pay for any -and all- damages to the vehicles involved regardless of whose fault it is and whether or not the damages were pre-existing. AND………………. Your insurance, including what your credit card supposedly provides, will be invalidated because technically you would have been driving illegally. Driving scooters, motorbikes and quads Driving license requirements: For scooters 50cc (Piaggio Typhoon and Kymco People) EU license class AM or B, for motorbikes up to 125cc EU class A1, for larger displacement motorcycles class A is required by law and insurance . For those from outside the EU, a driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement is required for all motorbikes. Driving a scooter even less than 50cc with a car only driver’s license is not allowed in Greece. ATV’s can be driven with a car driver’s license. Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol Legal limit Legal limit: 0.05% (equivalent to 0.25 mg per litre of breath) A lower limit of 0.02% (0.10 mg per litre of breath) applies to novice drivers who have held a driving licence for less than two years, to motorcyclists and to drivers of commercial or business vehicles. If the amount of alcohol in the blood is 0.05% or over, this constitutes a criminal offence and penalties are imposed Alcohol The police may impose a test on any suspected person in order to establish if one is under the influence of alcohol. Drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol are compelled to accept this test and their refusal may lead to penalties including imprisonment, a fine and the withdrawal of their driving licence Minimum Driving Age Drivers must be 18 years old with a valid license, having passed a driving test. Seat Belts Must be used by front-seat passengers. With Greece’s high accident rate, please, everybody, strap yourself in. Children Children under the age of 10 are forbidden to sit in the front seat. Speed Limits Use these as a guide, but always obey the posted limits, which may vary. Urban areas: 30 mph/50 kph Outside cities: 68 mph/110 kph In Zakynthos, there are NO roads that are built for speed (freeways/motorways) and quite often you will find yourself on roads that seem to be only one way, however are not. Driving, safely at ALL times is highly recommended. Using the Horn Technically, it’s illegal in towns and urban areas except in case of emergencies. Use it freely if needed; it could save your life. On mountain roads, and around twists and turns through olive groves, always use your horn. In such circumstances always make a short beep shortly before going around a blind curve, you never know what is coming around the bend. Flashing your lights This is usually down as a courtesy for you to progress first, the other person will flash his lights to allow you to pass a difficult road or allow you to exit/enter a narrow road. Driving in the Middle of the Road This is very common in the villages, especially on narrow roads, and is not necessarily a bad idea if you are expecting to have to avoid a sudden obstruction such as rock falls, grazing goats, or an unexpected parked car. However, at slow speed as usually it is these narrow roads that you may come head on with a truck, bus or even a tractor. Never take it for granted that you have the road all to yourself. Roadside Assistance ELPA offers coverage to members of AAA (Triple-A), CAA and other similar assistance services but any driver can contact them. Check with your membership department for information on using the ELPA shared services in Greece. ELPA has a quick-access numbers anywhere in Greece: 10400 If renting you will be advised of emergency numbers. Parking Forbidden (though it may not be marked) within 9 feet of a fire hydrant, 15 feet of an intersection, or 45 feet from a bus stop. Renting a vehicle for your holiday or trip Cars The most popular car companies which are found worldwide are on the island along with family owned rental places. Prices vary obviously depending on the car you choose. However, as mentioned above you may want to wait till you get to the island and check out the availability and prices that are offered, especially in the off seasons. There are rental places in Zakynthos town, every major resort and also near the airport. The legal driver age to rent a car in Greece is 23-70 years old, depending on the category or the car. The driver must hold an international driving license and have at least 2 years of driving experience. The driver is the only person licensed to drive the rental vehicle, unless a second driver is stated in the contract with the rental company. Insurance coverage Most car rentals offer unlimited miles and LDW (loss damage waiver, also called collision damage waiver) coverage in case of an accident. This means that if an accident happens and it is the fault of the rental’s driver, then this driver is only responsible for the small amount of money that has already been prearranged with the rental company. Upon car delivery, drivers can ask for an extra coverage or full damage waiver, if they wish. We would recommend take some photos of the rental car upon pick up and note together with the rental representative all possible scratches or damages on the vehicle. This way, you can prove that none of these damages were caused by you when the rental period is finished. Scooters and motorbikes Hiring a two wheeled vehicle would be one of the cheapest ways to get around in Zakynthos. There are many types to choose from and rental companies are easy to find. Standard European Union licence categories for motorcycles and light vehicles (AM, A1, A2 and A) apply in Greece. There are separate regulations that apply when driving scooters and motorbikes. Scooters Scooters can be driven with an EU category AM licence, which is valid for two- or three-wheeled vehicles that have a driving speed of no more than 45 Km/h and an engine capacity of no more than 50cc. Drivers must be at least 18 years old, due to international driving licence laws. AM-class vehicles may also be driven by holders of an A-class licence, which allows access to all vehicles in the A class. An A-class licence can be obtained at the age of 24, or at the age of 22 if the licence holder has used A2-class vehicles for two years. In some countries, a B-class licence allows access to all vehicles in the A class. Motorbikes From age 18, drivers may apply for an A1 licence. This covers motorbikes with a maximum engine capacity of 125cc. Insurance Insurance is available from your rental company, however it is important to note that any incidents whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs you may not be covered. Therefore, we would suggest before leaving with your vehicle you have been told and understand the conditions of your contract. Don’t forget your HELMET! Quads When thinking about hiring a quad, one should be aware of the following things. Quad bikes are deceptive beasts, besides that they are one of the most popular forms of vehicles among tourists. They are an excellent way of getting around, and for this reason I am going to take a little more time on advising you on your choice. They look solid, reliable and stable. They look like the sort of machine that pretty much anyone can get on without too much trouble and start riding. Which is how a lot of people treat them, unfortunately. Right, here’s the news. Quad bikes are inherently unstable. They have a narrow wheel-base and a high centre of gravity. They have a type of tyre designed to grip on soft ground but on the road they can grip suddenly and tip over before you have time to react. And remember……. they need quite a bit of skill to ride them properly and safely. Many people are injured the very first time they ride a quad bike, and it is a sad fact that in Zakynthos many accidents have happened mainly involving quads. Speed and uncontrollable quads being the main cause. Of course it is not the quad’s fault but the driver who is handling it. Learn how to handle your quad safely. The thing with quads is that they look so simple to use. It’s not as though you can fall off it and get up again the way you could with a motorbike. If it tips over and lands straight on top of you, the chances of lifting it off on your own are very slim, no matter how strong you think you are – and assuming you’re not injured. Riding a quad is a particular skill. In many instances you have to do quite the opposite to what you would do on a two-wheel bike. It’s counter-intuitive and it takes learning.
As for the laws and safety measures of driving or riding a motorcycle, you have a licence to drive you should know the rules…… SEAT BELT for your car……. HELMET for all who are on a motorbike or Quad!!!!! You should not have to be warned. For British nationals more information can be found on their website.https://www.gov.uk Zakynthos Informer warns that any information in regards to the above is liable to change without notice.  There’s one image that symbolises the island of Zakynthos internationally. It’s been used in thousands of newspaper and magazine articles, appeared on TV adverts and photographed by people from all over the world. No one quite knows what makes it so iconic, but the fact remains, that for many visitors to the island it’s a must see part of their trip. The cove known as Navagio, was originally known as Agios Georgios and there hasn’t always been a shipwreck on the beach. The rusting ship hulk is actually a relatively recent addition, and one that came about purely by accident. Now, however, it’s the islands main tourist attraction, and it’s incredibly popular. There are currently two ways of viewing the shipwreck – by driving to the north of the island and looking down upon it from the specially created viewpoint or by taking a boat trip out to the beach and exploring the ship close up.
The History of the MV Panagiotis The ship originally named St Bedan, was a Coaster General Cargo ship built in the Scott & Sons Bowling Yard in Glasgow for J & A Gardner. It officially launched on Thursday 14th January 1937. A few years after her launch – between 26 May and 4 June 1940 – St Bedan was heroically used during the famous Dunkirk Evacuations, where she rescued Allied soldiers from the beaches and port harbour of Dunkirk during world war two. No one knows exactly how many trips the ship made, or how many troops she rescued, but the fact that she was such a huge part of history goes towards making her history even more special. In 1964 the ship left the UK after being bought by Gigilinis & S. Kakassinas, in Thessaloniki, Greece, they changed the ship’s name from St Bedan to Meropi, but the name didn’t last long and a year later is was changed to Charis. In 1972 the ship changed hands again, this time being owned by Marina Koutrouba & Co., Thessaloniki, Greece. Shortly after, in 1974, the ship was sold again to N.S.Kalfas, Thessaloniki, Greece, and the the ship’s name changed once more, this time to Nicos. In 1977 the ship was sold again to G. Trivelas & Co. T. Katsaron, Thessaloniki, Greece, who again changed the name, to MV Panagiotis – the last name change. In early 1980, the ship changed hands for the last time to owners P.Lisikatos & Co., Piraeus (Soulanis & others), Greece. It wasn’t long after, on 01 October 1980, that the MV Panagiotis met her final fate of being wrecked on the island of Zakynthos. Throughout its service the ship acted mainly as a Coastal Trading Vessel (also known as Coasters). These ships were used for movement of trade between multiple locations. They were built with shallow hulls that allowed them to pass through areas that other ships couldn’t. Rumours are however, that MV Panagiotis spent her latter years as a smuggling ship running contraband. Running aground on Zakynthos It’s widely reported that on the 01 October 1980 the MV Panagiotis was on her way to Turkey with a freight of contraband cigarettes. During its route it was spotted by the Greek Navy and swiftly pursued in the direction of the Ionian islands, as the MV Panagiotis tried to outrun the Navy, they encountered bad weather brought on by storms. The MV Panagiotis was swept towards Zakynthos and ran aground on the beach it now sits upon. The crew abandoned ship to evade the Greek Navy, but no one knows what happened to them. It is said however, that Zakynthian locals raided the cargo that MV Panagiotis’ was carrying which was reported to contain cigarettes and whiskey, and that subsequently no ‘official’ tobacco product was sold on the island for four years following the wrecking. Some locals do have different stories about what happened during the wrecking of MV Panagiotis that day, and some even believe that the MV Panagiotis was deliberately placed in the cove by the Ministry of Tourism as a way of bringing tourists to the island. It is a belief that is heavily supported in some areas as the image of the ship in the cove appears on thousands of websites, literature and other tourist related products as the ‘iconic’ image of Zakynthos. This latter supposition is heavily denied by others though, and the wrecking of the ship after being chased by the Navy due to smuggling remains the most constant story. In recent years however, the last Captain of the MV Panagiotis – Captain Charalambos Kompothekras – Kotsoros, who was onboard the MV Panagiotis when it ran aground, has released his own version of events supported by heavily redacted court paperwork, to try and explain what really happened, which was simple: The MV Panagiotis was on a legal trade run, the storm they sailed through was a bad one, the ship unfortunately ran aground after a fire broke out and it had to be abandoned on Navagio beach by all crew on board. The captain says that he sailed the MV Panagiotis from the Argostoli in Kefalonia on 06 September 1980 to Durrës in Albania. A month later the ship was made ready for departure for a return journey. On the return journey the Captain stated that the ship was met with bad weather and suffered mechanical failure forcing it onto Agios Georgios beach (Navagio beach). Agios Georgios beach was the original name for Navagio beach, named after the monastery above. The Captain notes in his account that he reported the accident to the authorities, but due to the inaccessibility of the beach, the Captain and her crew were unable to protect the ship and its cargo from the weather, sea and thieves. The Captain said that because he and his crew were unable to protect MV Panagiotis part of its cargo was stolen, as well as important shipping equipment such as the VHF radio, and radar equipment. The Captain reported the thefts to the authorities, he said that the General Prosecutor helped him to access the site with the police to check the boat and record damages and thefts. The Captain states that the police located stolen items from MV Panagiotis in local Zakynthan villages close to the site, twenty-nine residents were arrested and some jailed after a case went to trial and their guilt was confirmed. The Captain says that he was accused of many things, but that the court case at the time cleared him of all accusations, but he was later told by authorities that he must remove MV Panagiotis from Agios Georgios beach himself, but when he went there to undertake the task he was taken in by the beauty of the beach and how the boat looked on that he chose to leave MV Panagiotis where it was. What actually happened to the MV Panagiotis that day in 1980 will never fully be understood, as there are so many rumours, and the court papers from the time are heavily redacted. Many people have their own theories and it’s impossible for the true story to ever really be known. Regardless, the MV Panagiotis has left the island a great legacy, one that has turned Navagio beach into the biggest tourist attraction on the island, and one that many people worldwide want to visit time and time again. Nowadays the ship lies abandoned, surrounded by high cliffs, left to the continuing mercy of winter storms. The great brown rusting hulk is a mere shadow of its former self, slowly being lost to the elements. In the summer it becomes a play ground for tourists, as boats land at the cove for passengers to walk around it, graffiti it or have a memorable photo taken with it. People have Base Jumped over it, walked a tightrope over it, and most recently Romain Febvre filmed a motocross video on the beach around it, and it has even become the iconic setting for part of a South Korean TV series called Descendants of the Sun. How long the rusting hulk remains on the beach is anyone’s guess. There has been talk of restoring it and possibly even replacing it with another ship at some point, but as with many stories in Greece no one can ever quite tell how much substance there is to a rumour. For now though, the shipwreck continues to draw tourists to the island and will continue to do so for a long time to come, for despite the fact that it’s an old cargo ship that ran aground, it’s a fantastic site to see, and one with an intriguing and historically interesting past. (add in: In January 2024, week bad weather and high seas swirled around the shipwreck at Navagio leaving behind some interesting photos that spread across social media quicker than you can say “shared”! The photos showed a ship that was a broken rusting wreck, with only the prow and stern visible through the sand. The middle is seemingly gone. Comments from locals and tourists were plentiful, with people on all sides having their say about the current state of the ship remains and the future of the bay, including how it will affect future tourism. So, is this the end of the famous Navagio shipwreck? Well at the moment no one really knows. The authorities say they would like to save it, as it’s important to the island and of course, they’re right. It’s not only become an international symbol of Zakynthos, but the presence of the shipwreck gives income to a large number of Zakynthos businesses and draws in hundreds of thousands of tourists every year. The long-term future of the shipwreck however is more complex and raises a wider issue for Zakynthos. How do the authorities save the rusting hulk when it’s almost to the point of beyond saving? Some also ask why authorities just concentrate on this one bay and its rusty ship, when the island is full of beautiful places, monasteries, a Venetian castle, and other amazing places to visit on Zakynthos? It raises an important question; should there be a more targeted and thought-out campaign to draw tourists to Zakynthos, so that visitors can discover more about the island and its history? Or has the Navagio shipwreck become so singularly important that its loss will affect the island and its tourism for years to come when ultimately, the ship can’t be saved? It’s a difficult situation for everyone and it will be interesting to see how this issue is resolved for locals, businesses, and tourists.) Author note: St. Bedan (MV Panagiotis) was one of two ships built at the Scott and Sons Bowling Yard shipyard and given the name St.Bedan. The other St. Bedan was unfortunately sunk using explosives in 1982; the crew thankfully escaped and were towed back to land.  A terrible week in Ionian history
This weekend is a sombre one in the history of the island of Zakynthos, when the island was shaken by one of the worst earthquakes the area ever experienced. This event was actually a series of earthquakes that began on the 8 August 1953, building up to a large earthquake on the 12 August 1953 that caused a lot of damage, and sadly a number of deaths. As well as the main earthquakes there were hundreds of tremors and aftershocks that affected the island and left a devastating trail of destruction in its wake. The episode, now called the Great Ionian Earthquake, began on the 08 August 1953 when several tremors disturbed the island. Zakynthos was then hit by a large earthquake on 9 August 1953 that damaged many buildings, especially on the eastern side in Zakynthos Town. Shaken but unhurt, islanders dusted themselves down and continued, clearing up the damage that had occurred, whilst trying to get back to normal, albeit through aftershocks and mild uncertainty. Two days later on the 11 August 1953 another large earthquake hit the island, damaging more buildings, making many of them collapse, rendering them uninhabitable. Islanders tried their best to carry on, but it was hard for them, as the previous few days had been full of tense worry. The tremors had continued to be felt and there was a lot of damage, some of which was now unrepairable. Little did the Zakynthians know that the worst was yet to come, and it wasn’t long before both Zakynthos and Kefalonia were dealt a devastatingly hard blow. At 11.23 am, the following morning – the 12 August, 1953 – a magnitude 7.2 earthquake rattled the entire area. It jolted both Zakynthos and Kefalonia, not only destroying the majority of what had been left standing from the previous few days seismic activity, but the earthquake and damage was swiftly followed by raging fires. Although most of the island felt the earthquake and endured some damage, the Eastern side of the island, most notably Zakynthos Town was hit the hardest. Panicked, and fleeing falling buildings, many Zakynthians in the main streets of Zakynthos Town became trapped, and around eighty people died; hundreds more were injured. Much of the town, that wasn’t already badly damaged, was razed to the ground leaving only three buildings standing – the Church of St Dionysius, the National Bank and a school in the Ammos area. Disaster had struck and many Zakynthian people found themselves homeless, hungry, and scared. Help comes from afar Whilst islanders tried to come to terms with what had happened, help swiftly made its way to the island. HMS Bermuda and HMS Gambia were the first to arrive on the scene and four Israeli ships weren’t far behind, making their way to Kefalonia to assist the neighbouring island, who had been affected just as badly. As the ships docked in Zakynthos Town, Zakynthians were given food, water, and medical treatment. Tents were set up in Solomos Square to help those who were dispossessed, and the Royal Navy crew pitched in wherever they were needed. Some stretchered the wounded, others dug through rubble to rescue those who were missing or to help find much treasured possessions, others helped distraught islanders find loved ones they had been separated from. An archaeologist who was staying on the island with family at the time, noted that the School in the Ammos area was used to house any rescued icons, statues and other historical items that had been retrieved from damaged or destroyed buildings. These items were important to the islanders and many locals as well as the school teachers pitched in to help save as much as they could. The archaeologist helped with the inventory and it’s down to the hard work of those who saved them that these precious items are still with us today. Sadly however, the library in Zakynthos Town that housed many great papers and historical texts, including information from WW2, was burned to the ground and all the contents were lost. An island rebuilds Over time, Zakynthos Town was cleared, new homes and businesses were built and injures healed. Sadly, much was lost though, and families grieved for loved ones, but the island did rebuild and live on. No one can ever begin to imagine what Zakynthos or Kefalonia went through during that week, as the island was struck by so many earthquakes. To lose so many people, buildings and possessions hit the island hard, and it’s a time that still lives in the minds of those who went through it, but the strength and determination of the Greek people showed itself and helped them through this awful time. Today, we not only remember what happened in August 1953, but we also thank the incredible bravery of those who came to Zakynthos’ rescue and helped the island when it was needed the most. Most of all though, we remember those who tragically lost their lives. They can never be replaced but neither will they be forgotten, and we keep the survivors in our thoughts, as they endure a loss they carry with them daily. The Great Ionian Earthquake may have tried to bring the island to its knees, but the island survived. Zakynthos was rebuilt and flourished once more and will continue to do so. The buildings in Zakynthos Town were re-built, learning from the past, making them stronger and to earthquake code, ensuring they are able to withstand this kind of event if it were ever to happen again.  Zakynthos or Zante
There are many things visitors love about Zakynthos. From the numerous beaches and coves, to the plentiful restaurants and bars with lots to see and do, there is something for everyone. The one thing that does confuse visitors time and again however, is the islands name. Some call it Zakynthos and others use the name Zante. So who is right, and what is the correct name? History The name of the island is all down to the numerous and varied changes in the islands history. Around 3000 years ago the island was called Hyrie, but there was also a brief moment in ancient times, during Homer’s lifetime, when the island was also briefly known as Ilysia. Then approximately 2500 years ago the son of Dardanus came to the island from Psophis in Arcadia and the island was renamed Zakynthos in his honour, with the main Town (Zakynthos Town) being called Psophis. For centuries island residents, called Zakynthians, lived their lives, fought numerous battles and were invaded by many nations, but throughout all of this the islands name of Zakynthos remained consistent. In the 1400’s the Venetians occupied Zakynthos, taking it from the troublesome Franks and Crusaders. From that moment the Italians used their own name of Zante to describe the island. Zakynthians became name as Zantiotes and the name Zante remained in use through centuries of Venetian rule. The name of Zakynthos, although unused, wasn’t completely forgotten though and it survived a complex history, albeit briefly resigned to history books. When the French and English invaded the island, they too used chose to use the term Zante, but after the French and English were ousted and the island was returned to Greek occupation, the name Zakynthos was once more reinstated and used as the islands official name. So what is the correct name? This is an argument that many people have. Strictly speaking, Zakynthos is the true Greek name and many now consider it to be the islands real name. There are some however, that use still use Zante, and you may even find the odd local also using Tzante! This inconsistency is down to the complex island history and it’s understandable. Whatever name you do choose to use, the island still remains the same, welcoming, friendly, and a great place to visit! |
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