Ithaca of Homer
Ithaca:
the poetic muse of Homer
Ithaca, the enchanting island of the Ionian Sea, is inextricably linked with Odysseus – the legendary king and hero of Homer’s Odyssey. In this epic, Ithaca is not merely presented as Odysseus’s homeland, but as an ideal symbol of return, longing, and inner peace.
In the Odyssey, Homeric Ithaca is described with characteristic landscapes that enhance its mythical essence: the majestic Mount Neriton, the mysterious Mount Neion, the picturesque harbor of Phorcys, as well as the Cave of the Naiads, which allude to ancient deities and rituals. Together, they create the image of a place with distinctive natural beauty and spiritual significance.
At the same time, the island is portrayed as a land of prosperity and harmony, filled with lush landscapes, fertile valleys, and sheltered natural harbors. Its strong ties with the gods and heroes of Greek mythology highlight its cultural weight, bestowing a timeless identity upon it.
Topographical features
In our time, significant archaeological discoveries continue to strengthen the connection between the island and Homeric narrative.
In 2010, on the hill of Agios Athanasios near the village of Stavros, a Mycenaean building complex was discovered, featuring multiple levels, stone staircases, and indications of religious or administrative use. This discovery adds substantial archaeological evidence that supports the identification of modern Ithaca with the homeland of Odysseus.
Undoubtedly, various theories have been proposed over the years placing Homeric Ithaca elsewhere. However, none of these theories bring together the rich geographical, mythological, and historical elements that modern Ithaca possesses. For the visitor, the island is not merely a destination; it is a living monument of cultural heritage.
The Palace of Odysseus at Agios Athanasios, Ithaca
Historic Discovery in the Heart of Homeric Ithaca
On the hill of Agios Athanasios, near the village of Stavros in northern Ithaca, a Mycenaean palatial complex was discovered, displaying all the features of a royal residence from the Late Bronze Age (13th–12th century BC). This site has been identified by many experts as the possible location of the palace of Odysseus, the resourceful king and hero of Homer.
From 1994 to 2010, under the direction of Professors Thanasis Papadopoulos and Litsa Kontorli-Papadopoulou, the following were excavated:
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A three-story building with carved stone staircases.
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Storage rooms, workshops, and a drainage system.
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A well dating to the 13th century BC, perfectly consistent with the era of Odysseus.
The site is also known as the “School of Homer.” From the top of the hill, three significant bays are visible: Polis, Afales, and Frikes — exactly as Homer describes them in the Odyssey.
Ithaca’s Global Exposure and Scientific Recognition
The significance of the excavation at Agios Athanasios has transcended Greece’s borders:
National Geographic highlighted the discovery as a potential identification of Odysseus’s palace, reigniting the question of whether the hero of the Odyssey was a historical figure. (National Geographic article: “The Odyssey offers monsters and magic—and also a real look into the ancient world”)
BBC History Channel, through the documentary “Akala’s Odyssey”, explores the enduring relevance of the Odyssey and its connections to contemporary society. While the documentary does not focus solely on the palace discovery, it offers a fresh perspective on the epic’s lasting influence.
(BBC History Channel: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0g71jdd)
Multidimensional Archaeological Documentation
Even more recently, new excavations have brought to light findings of critical importance for understanding Ithaca’s Homeric past:
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In Exogi, a Mycenaean complex was discovered with buildings that bear signs of authority and ritual use.
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At Pilikata and Piso Aetos, archaeologists uncovered cyclopean walls, large halls, storerooms, and possible sacred structures.
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Luxurious artifacts made of clay, bronze, and faience indicate participation in the international trade network of the Eastern Mediterranean.
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Evidence of the use of Linear B script confirms administrative functions—pointing to a well-organized Mycenaean kingdom.
Toponyms and Local Tradition
The island’s long-standing identification with Odysseus is further affirmed by:
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References by ancient writers like Strabo and Pausanias, who explicitly name Ithaca as the homeland of Odysseus.
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Roman coins bearing the image of Odysseus and the inscription “ITHACA,” attesting to the historical continuity of the island’s name and identity.
All these elements strengthen the theory that modern Ithaca is indeed Homeric Ithaca.
Conferences about Homer
What are the Homeric Conferences of Ithaca?
The Homeric Conferences of Ithaca are international academic gatherings dedicated to the study of Homer, the Odyssey, and the Iliad, with a focus on the cultural, philosophical, literary, and historical aspects of the Homeric world. These prestigious events typically take place every three to four years in the island’s capital, Vathy. They are among the most important intellectual events of international renown, attracting philologists, historians, archaeologists, writers, and Homeric scholars from around the globe.
Conference activities include:
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Scholarly presentations and lectures by distinguished speakers
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Showcasing of new research on Homeric Ithaca, Odyssey’s geography, and archaeological discoveries
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Literary and musical events often inspired by the Odyssey
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Educational workshops for students and emerging researchers
Who organizes the conferences?
The Homeric Conferences are organized under the initiative of the Municipality of Ithaca, in collaboration with Greek and international universities, cultural institutions, and research centers. They are often supported by the Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Sports, as well as the Hellenic Society for Homeric Studies.
Why are they important?
These conferences serve as a bridge between academia, culture, and local identity. They not only highlight the intellectual depth of Homeric literature but also emphasize the timeless significance of Ithaca as a place of memory, inspiration, and dialogue between past and present.
The Homeric Conferences strengthen Ithaca’s global image as the homeland of Odysseus, while also promoting cultural tourism, scholarly research, and the preservation of local cultural heritage.
Past Homeric Conferences
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1st Homeric Conference – 1995
Theme: “Homer and the Roots of Western Civilization”
Held at the Cultural-Educational Center of Vathy, this inaugural event marked the beginning of a significant scholarly tradition. -
4th Homeric Conference – 2005
Theme: “Homer in the 21st Century”
Included roundtable discussions and open dialogues on the geography of the Odyssey. -
6th Homeric Conference – 2010
Theme: “From Myth to Memory”
Coincided with the archaeological announcement of a Mycenaean discovery at Agios Athanasios near Stavros. -
8th Homeric Conference – 2016
Theme: “Return, Identity, and Nostalgia in Homeric Discourse”
Featured a public reading of the Odyssey under the stars, held at the School of Homer.
“Studying Homer in the homeland of Odysseus is an experience that transcends academia. The landscape ‘speaks,’ and history touches you personally.”
— Dr. Helena Rupp, University of Tübingen“Ithaca doesn’t just host conferences. It embodies the spirit of the epic. In Stavros, you walk upon layers of myth and time.”
— Giorgos M., poet and 2016 conference speaker