Ithaki has been inhabited since the Neolithic period (4000-3000 BC) and since the following millennium (3000-2000 BC) there are organised settlements on the island as witnessed by the ruins of settlements, streets and walls found in Pilikata area and the finds in Loizos Cave.

The origins of the island's first inhabitants is unknown.
In the beginning, the population was gathered at the northern part of the island and, around 1500 BC, people move towards Vathi. This transfer is the beginning of a prosperous period in the island's life.

The state of Cephalines is founded, having Ithaki as capital and including the surrounding islands and part of the neighbouring mainland coast.

City of Alalkomenes

The City of Alalkomenes, which is situated near Aetos, is believed to have been built in the 8th century BC. An ancient temple dedicated to goddess Artemis or her brother, god Apollo is located here.

During the last two centuries excavations are being conducted in the area. Although, several finds were looted by illicit dealers, many items were saved and they are housed in Vathi's museum.

Furthermore, the view about Ulysses' palace being here is also corroborated by the fact that finds and traces of settlements going back to the Neolithic Period were excavated by archaeologists.

In Pilikata you will see Stavros' museum where finds from the Mycenean and Corinthian period are housed.