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seleanor

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Mandola is a very popular sweet in Kefalonia and it is one of the biggest exports from the island. This treat is made of almond, honey, sugar and egg whites. The dessert has a few different variations, but is usually gluten free! The ingredients are very simple which is why they are so allergen friendly. I was doing some research and apparently these cookies are originally from the Venetian occupation in Kefalonia.
 
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Mandola is a very popular sweet in Kefalonia and it is one of the biggest exports from the island. This treat is made of almond, honey, sugar and egg whites. The dessert has a few different variations, but is usually gluten free! The ingredients are very simple which is why they are so allergen friendly. I was doing some research and apparently these cookies are originally from the Venetian occupation in Kefalonia.
Is this the Greek word for Marzipan? Sweet almond paste, right? That people bake with? The Greek versions are so delicious!
 
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This has been one of my favorite sweets over the years. Whenever family members go to Kefalonia, and when I go myself, I always make sure to get some. I would definitely try some if you are able!
 
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Is this the Greek word for Marzipan? Sweet almond paste, right? That people bake with? The Greek versions are so delicious!

Here's some more info about the desert, I've never heard of it or had it myself, it's just some info I found online
 
Mandola is a very popular sweet in Kefalonia and it is one of the biggest exports from the island. This treat is made of almond, honey, sugar and egg whites. The dessert has a few different variations, but is usually gluten free! The ingredients are very simple which is why they are so allergen friendly. I was doing some research and apparently these cookies are originally from the Venetian occupation in Kefalonia.
Indeed "mandorla" [akin to "mandola"] is the standard Italian word for "almond", from the Latin word which is from the classical Greek "amygdalE". A nice circulation of words! Even though the Greek colonization [8th century B.C.] took place in southern Italy, there was a town in Etruscan territory, near the later Venice, that the Romans found and called "amanda" [= to be loved], obviously by assimilating the name they heard to their own language: they must have heard "amygda-" [amunda-]. In the South, the second alpha turned into an omicron, as in the extant names of various places and persons: Amendolea, Amendolara, etc. // I love almonds and their products.
 
Indeed "mandorla" [akin to "mandola"] is the standard Italian word for "almond", from the Latin word which is from the classical Greek "amygdalE". A nice circulation of words! Even though the Greek colonization [8th century B.C.] took place in southern Italy, there was a town in Etruscan territory, near the later Venice, that the Romans found and called "amanda" [= to be loved], obviously by assimilating the name they heard to their own language: they must have heard "amygda-" [amunda-]. In the South, the second alpha turned into an omicron, as in the extant names of various places and persons: Amendolea, Amendolara, etc. // I love almonds and their products.
An extension rather than a reply.
I understand that the modern Greek word for Almond is Amygdalo; that is, the terminal letter of the classical word [eta] turned into an omicron rather than into a customary Doric alpha. So, the vowel shift must have taken place among the Ionians or the Athenians, probably in Byzantine times. //
The Italian word for Almond, namely Mandorla, was also used for a musical instrument in the 16th-17th century, since the front of the guitar-like instrument has the shape of an almond. It is the ancestor of the Mandolino/Mandolin [= Little Mandorla]. Its ancestor is disputed. One theory says that it was the Pandoura. This name is Greek, but apparently the instrument was played by the Akkadians [who took over Sumer in Mesopotania] in the 3rd millennium B.C. Anyway, Wikipedia shows the picture of a Tanagra statuette from about 200 B.C.: a young lady is playing a Pandoura, which has a polygonal rather than almond shape. [Tanagra was in Boeotia, north of Athens.]
Today's Bouzouki [MPoyzoyki] is a very long necked Mandorla which, they say, was introduced to Greece in 1900 from Anatolia -- exactly from where? From the former Ionia?It seems to me that the old name "Pandoura" referred to the long wooden neck/stem, rather than the body, of the instrument. [[Please add any information you may have.]]
By the way, the Akkadians assimilated the Sumerian culture and language. I have found already that this language, written in cuneiforms, was largely based on classical Greek, and so are Sanskrit, Etruscan, Anglo-Saxon, and Basque.
 
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Planning to visit Melissani Cave

I am planning to go to Kefalonia and want to visit Melissani Cave. I am personally very excited about it, but someone in my party is afraid of small spaces (small, dark spaces). Their claustrophobia is actually something they've needed therapy for in the past.

To those of you who have been, do you think this individual should try to find something else to do that day?!

I am not crazy about that aspect of visiting caves either, but I don't have a legit fear like she does. I know that I can relax and enjoy the experience once I get used to the feelings of being in a cave.

Always wanted to see the turtles in Kefalonia...

I have a bucket list of going to Kefalonia while the turtles are on the beaches. I love turtles and this seems like a really beautiful thing.

I found this video that talks about them. It's not quite seeing them in person, but it was informative. Thought I'd share:

Has anyone visited Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia?

I'm planning a trip to Kefalonia and have heard a lot of great things about Myrtos Beach.

Has anyone on this forum been there? I'm interested in knowing:
  • The best time of day to visit
  • Tips for parking and accessibility
  • Recommendations for nearby local eateries
  • Any must-know tips for first-time visitors (like peak times to avoid, if it's suitable for kids, etc.)
Also, if you have any suggestions for other activities or attractions nearby that are worth exploring, I'd love to hear about those too!

Top Attractions in Kefalonia

Planning a trip to kefalonia next year. I want to see the turtles - I was thinking of going at the end of June. Does this make sense to see the turtles?

In addition I want to see the following - did I miss anything?

- Melissani Cave
- Skala Beach (and other beaches)
- Castle of Agios Georgios

Anything else I should prioritize?

Kefalonia hiking trails information

I've recently ventured into the breathtaking landscapes of Kefalonia, Greece, and I'm excited to share some insights and hopefully gather some from you as well. Kefalonia is not just a paradise for those seeking sun and sea; it's also a haven for hikers looking to explore nature's marvels on foot.

Myrtos Beach to Assos: This trail offers panoramic views of the famous Myrtos Beach, leading you to the quaint village of Assos. The path might be challenging, but the views are incredibly rewarding. The hike is a fantastic way to experience the island’s natural beauty and take in the serene atmosphere of Assos.

Mount Ainos: For those looking to conquer heights, Mount Ainos is the highest peak on the island. The national park offers various trails with different difficulty levels, each leading you through a unique landscape of Kefalonian fir trees and offering stunning views of the Ionian Sea. It's a must for anyone wanting to experience Kefalonia's diverse flora and fauna.

Fiskardo to Dafnoudi Beach: This trail is perfect for a leisurely hike. Starting from the charming harbor of Fiskardo, the path takes you through ancient cypress and olive groves until you reach the secluded beach of Dafnoudi. Here, you can relax in the crystal-clear waters before heading back.

The Italian War Memorial: Located near Argostoli, this trail is not only a nature walk but also a historical journey. The path leads you to a memorial dedicated to the Italian Acqui Division, offering insights into the island’s past and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Ainos to Lourdas Beach: Starting from the slopes of Mount Ainos, this trail will take you through some of the most scenic routes on the island, ending at the beautiful Lourdas Beach. It’s a diverse hike, showcasing all the natural beauty Kefalonia has to offer.

I'm looking to explore more trails in Kefalonia and would love to hear your experiences or any hidden gems you've discovered on the island. Share your stories, tips, and any must-see spots for fellow hikers planning their next adventure in Kefalonia.
Share and discuss your Kefalonia photos, questions and experiences!

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