History of Paxi
This island has everything that is considered necessary for peaceful and quality holidays: indented beaches, small coves, lush green hills full of olive trees, imposing rocks and sea caves. Its limited surface (13 km2, coastline length of 30 km) gives visitors the opportunity to tour the whole island on foot.
Mythology has it that the lovestruck Poseidon created this island by striking Corfu with his trident, so that he and his new wife Amfitrite could have some peace and quiet.
Even though it might have been inhabited well before then,the Phoenecians are traditionally held to have been the first settlers on Paxi. Even the name indicates it, since Pax meant slate in their language.
The Romans ruled the island from the 2nd century BC, and during the Byzantine time and Middle ages it was constantly attacked by pirates. After various rulers and Crusaders had passed Paxi, the island was taken by the Venetians in the beginning of the 16th century.
At the end of the 18th century, the island belonged to the Napolean army, and for a while, it belonged to the Ionian Union. During most of the 19th century Paxi was a British protectorate. The war of Independence had broken out in 1821 and in 1864 Paxi was liberated.
Gaios
The capital and port of the island is ideal for holidays under the sun, next to the sea. The narrow canal between Paxoi and the islet of Aghios Nikolaos is one of the most beautiful landscapes of the Ionian Sea. On the pier you will find cafeterias and fish taverns.
What to see in the city:
The church of Aghios Charalampos, the patron-saint of the island and the church of Aghioi Apostoloi with interesting mural paintings.
The Folklore Museum housed in the Venetian – and later English - government house.
The islet of Aghios Nikolaos in the port with the Venetian fortress, the two islets and the windmill.
The islet of Panaghia with monastery dedicated to Virgin Mary and the picturesque lighthouse.
Lakka
A picturesque settlement in the northern part of the island, in lush green surroundings with beautiful houses, alleys and small squares. It is located 7.5 km away from Gaios.
Sightseeing
The church of Aghios Andreas.
The sea cave of Ypapanti.
The beautiful sunset view from the lighthouse.