Ithaca, an island with a rich cultural and natural heritage, is not only known for its history and mythology but also for the active participation of its local community through its numerous associations. From cultural and athletic activities to nature-loving and artistic initiatives, the people of Ithaca offer alternative outlets for permanent residents and visitors alike, keeping the island lively and creative, even during the winter months. Let’s explore them!
Philanthropic Club of Ithaca – Philharmonic
The “Philharmonic and Music School of Ithaca” was founded in 1904 by music-loving Ithacans with the goal of providing free music education and participating in cultural and social events. It operates as an independent non-profit association and has been part of the “Philanthropic Club of Ithaca” (PCI) since 1923, making it one of the island’s key cultural institutions.
“This association has the largest membership on the island, second only to the compulsory education schools,” says its president, Mr. Tilemachos Vlasopoulos. The Philharmonic owns a dedicated building, teaching rooms, a musical instrument museum, technical infrastructure, and a collection of music books.
“This association has the largest membership on the island, second only to the compulsory education schools,” says its president, Mr. Tilemachos Vlasopoulos. The Philharmonic owns a dedicated building, teaching rooms, a musical instrument museum, technical infrastructure, and a collection of music books. The Philharmonic is usually composed of about 30 members, primarily schoolchildren and a few adults. “It’s a big cultural school in a small place,” Mr. Vlasopoulos remarks, emphasizing its role in the local community. About 80 children—over half of the school-aged population of Ithaca—receive free music education here. The Philharmonic has proudly represented Ithaca in many Greek cities and abroad, including Madrid and the Athens Concert Hall. This year, it celebrated its 120th anniversary with special events.
Its conductor, Mr. Panagiotis Zafeiropoulos, a musician with the Athens Orchestra, also organizes concerts and collaborates with acclaimed musicians and singers from the National Opera and State Orchestra.
Mr. Vlasopoulos further emphasized, "The Ionian region has a long and distinct classical music tradition that differs from the rest of Greece. However, maintaining the Philharmonic is challenging, as many children leave the island after graduating from high school, making it difficult to replenish its members."
Municipal Mandolinata of Ithaca “Vaptistis Kouvaras”
The Municipal Mandolinata of Ithaca is one of the island's most vibrant cultural organizations, with a long history dating back to 1962. It was revived in 2007 through the initiative of Angelos Kouvaras and the support of his friends, Minas Manias and Giannis Molfesis, former students of the 1962 Mandolinata led by Vaptistis Kouvaras.
The revival of the Mandolinata would not have been possible without the invaluable contribution of Gregor Schaefer, a German conductor and Ithaca resident for the past 40 years, who undertook the organization and guidance of the group, shaping it into its current form.
"At the moment, we are 20-22 members, but during the summer, the group expands to 25-30 members of various ages, with the average age being 55-60 years. We meet every Tuesday and Saturday," explains Ms. Natasha Vlissma, a member of the group. "The younger children usually join the Philharmonic, which is also very important for our island. Music here is a great outlet, a wonderful activity that helps develop skills. It's very rewarding to be part of a group where members inspire each other," she adds.
Initially, the Mandolinata was hosted in the Philharmonic building of the Philanthropic Club of Ithaca and later in a room of the old Municipal School in Vounaki. Since 2007, it has been part of the Municipality of Ithaca and is now known as the "Municipal Mandolinata of Ithaca – Vaptistis Kouvaras." "Today, we are housed in a building within the kindergarten grounds," notes Ms. Vlissma, emphasizing their excellent cooperation with the municipality, which actively supports their efforts.
Over the years, the Mandolinata has been strengthened through donations of musical instruments, the most significant being a piano donated by the couple Anni and Vassilis Karavias. "Our space is excellent, and the municipality supports us practically, which is crucial for our activities," Ms. Vlissma highlights.
Revival of Ionian Music Tradition
The Mandolinata regularly performs every year in Vathy and the villages of Ithaca in collaboration with the island’s philanthropic clubs. “We participate in the Municipality’s festive programs and are always present at events we’re invited to. During the summer, we hold at least one concert and visit villages on the island,” says Ms. Vlissma.
Municipal Choir of Ithaca
Founded in 2003, the Municipal Choir of Ithaca is a vibrant cultural hub of the island. Originating from the Ithaca Elderly Center (KAPI), it evolved into a Municipal Choir and has continued its journey with a rich repertoire and numerous performances both on the island and beyond.
The choir’s success is owed to the close cooperation between its members, the contribution of the conductor, the support of the local government, and most importantly, the love and encouragement of the Ithacan community.
The choir consists of approximately 30 amateur singers, a conductor, and a small musical ensemble of four instrumentalists playing the piano, harmonica, guitar, and bouzouki.
The Ionian Islands’ musical tradition, characterized by serenades and informal gatherings where friends sang accompanied by guitars and mandolins, is an integral part of their cultural heritage. Today, the Ithaca Choir and Mandolinata preserve these elements, keeping the Ionian culture alive as a living tradition.
Football Athletic Club “Odysseas”
The Football Athletic Club “Odysseas” (F.A.C. Odysseas) was founded in 1980, fulfilling a long-standing desire of northern Ithaca’s residents to establish an athletic club to represent their area in sports events. Since then, “Odysseas” has been a constant presence in the Kefalonia-Ithaca championships, contributing not only to sports but also to the social activities of the island.
After joining the local Football Association, “Odysseas” began in the B Amateur Division. In its very first championship season (1980-81), it earned promotion to the A Division. A notable achievement came during the 1983-84 season, when the team secured 3rd place in the A Division. Additionally, in the 1988-89 season, “Odysseas” claimed the title of B Division Champion and repeated this success in 2013-14, solidifying its reputation as a formidable competitor.
A milestone in the club’s history was the inauguration of its stadium in Stavros in 1994, made possible by the generous donation of Nikolaos Ravtopoulos-Pasas, a historic president and founding member. The acquisition of its own field fulfilled the dreams of many generations.
Another significant step was taken in 2014 with the establishment of the “Odysseas” Youth Team. The club continues to be a cornerstone of sports in Ithaca, with remarkable performances and an active role in fostering a love for athletics among the younger generations.
Dance and Cultural Association of Ithaca - “Harilaos Tsigonias”
The Dance and Cultural Association of Ithaca “Harilaos Tsigonias” embodies the vision of the late gym teacher and educator of Ithaca’s Nautical High School (1961-1974), Harilaos Tsigonias. Under his guidance, the association began its journey in 1983 as the Dance Ensemble of the Municipality of Ithaca. In 1998, with the initiative of his former students who wished to honor his memory, the association took on its current form.
Today, it operates as a non-profit organization, with its members dedicated to preserving, transmitting, and showcasing the cultural heritage of Ithaca and Greece. Through steady growth, the association has delivered successful performances in Greece and abroad, actively participating in Ithaca’s cultural events. Its activities include dance performances, participation in social, religious, and spiritual events, as well as revivals of local customs.
With dance classes for children, teenagers, adults, and seniors, the association promotes education and culture through traditional Greek dances. The support of local authorities and the Ithacan community is essential for its ongoing success.
Elderly Open Care Center (KAPI)
The Elderly Open Care Center (KAPI) of the Municipality of Ithaca was founded on October 29, 1984, with the mission of providing social and medical care to the island’s elderly, helping them remain active members of their families and the community.
“KAPI is one of the most important services of the Municipality of Ithaca,” states Ms. Ourania Louka, Deputy Mayor for Social Policy and Welfare and a physician. “Since taking office last year, we have made significant efforts to upgrade KAPI. Our goal is to bring the elderly closer together and encourage them to stay active, especially during the winter months. We want them to leave their homes, participate in activities that bring joy and interaction, and feel part of the community. We renovated KAPI’s facilities, creating a more welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, we launched a series of cultural and social activities in collaboration with the island’s associations. Our goal is to strengthen the bond between older and younger generations so they can exchange knowledge and traditions. This intergenerational relationship is mutually beneficial,” she emphasizes.
Activities and Events
“Every week, primarily on Wednesdays, we organize various activities at KAPI. These include philosophical discussions, musical evenings with the choir and Mandolinata, and festive events. Additionally, there are knitting, crafting, dancing, singing, and fitness groups, offering entertainment and enjoyment for our members. This summer, KAPI organized a knitting exhibition and aspires to host a bazaar in the future. Moreover, KAPI arranges an annual major trip along with several day trips. This year, we visited Kastoria, Florina, Nymfaio, and Prespa Lakes. We always conclude the summer season with a big celebration featuring an orchestra,” Ms. Louka notes.
Women’s Association of Ithaca - “Penelope”
Founded in 1985, the Women’s Association of Ithaca “Penelope” serves as a cornerstone for empowering women and fostering the cultural and social development of the island.
According to the association’s president, Ms. Ourania Mavromati, “Currently, we have about 140-150 members, all women, but our events often include their spouses, such as at the New Year’s cake-cutting ceremony. We meet almost monthly for an event, although during the summer, gatherings are less frequent.”
The association organizes a variety of activities, from social gatherings to lectures on topics of interest to women and the wider community. “It is an active association, with the average age of our members ranging from 50 to 60,” the president mentions.
Meetings take place at the Cultural Center, restaurants, or other suitable venues. “We are a small community where everyone knows each other. Any woman who comes to the island can join our association and become a member,” the president says, encouraging new members to join.
Over the years, the association’s consistent presence and activities highlight the importance of women’s unity and collaboration for the community’s progress. Through charitable and cultural initiatives, the Women’s Association continues to support Ithacan women, actively address the community’s needs, and keep local traditions alive.
Friends of Artistic Education of Ithaca – "En Choro"
The Friends of Artistic Education of Ithaca “En Choro” is a non-profit association based in the town of Ithaca. Established in 2009, it has since become an important cultural institution on the island, aiming to develop and promote the art of dance and culture in general.
Today, the association offers classes in ballet, contemporary, modern dance, and Zumba. These activities primarily cater to children and teenagers, with a steady participation of 40-60 children per year. “Lessons are held three weekends a month, and we collaborate with certified instructors. While there were quite a few boys in the earlier years, we now have only two,” says the association’s treasurer, Ms. Vicky Softi.
The eagerness of children to attend classes underscores the association’s importance in the local community. “The kids are very happy. During the summer, they keep asking when lessons will resume,” Ms. Softi remarks.
The association participates in the Municipality’s Christmas celebrations with choreographed performances and organizes an annual musical theater production in the summer featuring all the children. Additionally, “En Choro” collaborates with other cultural organizations for charitable, environmental, and cultural initiatives.
Athletic Club of Ithaca – "Proodos"
The Athletic Club of Ithaca “Proodos,” founded in 1950, is one of the most significant pillars of sports on the island. Initially a multi-purpose club, it became a dedicated athletic association in 1957 and has since inspired generations of youth, offering opportunities through sports.
Historical Milestones
“Proodos” has left its mark on many key moments in Ithaca’s sporting history. It joined the Patras Football Association in 1976 and, just a year later, was crowned champion of the C Amateur Division. In 1980, as the champion of the B Amateur Division of Patras, it joined the newly established Football Association of Kefalonia and Ithaca, winning its division’s cup in 1981. A significant milestone was also the acquisition of its stadium in 1959, located in the Ithaca Municipal Stadium.
Departments
Today, the club operates two main departments: football and sailing. As described by the club’s president, Mr. Christos Manolopoulos:
The football department includes about 20-25 players in the men’s team and academies for younger members. The academies start with Junior (15 children from grades 1-3) and continue with K12 (15-20 children from grades 4-6).
The sailing department currently includes 6-7 children aged 6-13 and operates year-round with the support of a permanent coach. The department has been funded by private sponsorship for the past two years.
Challenges and Facilities
Despite its significant contribution to youth sports, the club faces serious challenges with its facilities. The 2021 “Ballos” storm caused extensive damage to the municipal stadium in Vathy, raising concerns about the safety of children and other users. Both the pitch and the changing rooms suffered severe damage, underscoring the urgent need for restoration.
Importance of "Proodos" for Children
Mr. Manolopoulos states, “The primary purpose of the club is to help children escape their daily routines and engage in sports. In a small island like Ithaca, sports provide children with entertainment and a constructive outlet. Despite the difficulties, children come to the field and spend their time creatively.”
"Forkys": The Association Keeping Ithaca's Theatrical Flame Alive
Since 1991, when Ithaca’s Theatrical Team began its first performances, and officially since 1996, the Friends of Theater and Cinema of Ithaca “Forkys” has been one of the cultural cornerstones of the island. Through its rich activities encompassing theater, cinema, and various forms of artistic expression, “Forkys” continues to inspire the local community with its creativity and contributions. The association currently has around 30 active members, mostly women, with an average age of 45+, according to its president, Mr. Alexandros Taflampas.
Theater Performances: A Continuing Tradition
For over 25 years, the association’s theater team has staged an annual theatrical production. The repertoire of “Forkys” includes works by renowned Greek and international playwrights such as Aristophanes, Chekhov, Molière, Brecht, and Xenopoulos. The productions range from classic comedies to modern social satires. Over the past 15 years, the association has collaborated with acclaimed director Periklis Vasilopoulos from Patras. This year, “Forkys” will present the play Tschapatschoulies on December 19th at the Ithaca Cultural Center in Vathy.
In addition, the team creates a children’s theater during the summer, offering the island’s children the opportunity to experience theatrical production and perform as protagonists.
The association’s longevity is the result of continuous effort and a passion for the arts. “We grew up with theater in Ithaca. In our performances, we try to involve everyone and engage deeply with theater. Even though the younger generations participate less, we continue to work and create,” says the president.
Cinematic Activities
Cinema is also a vital part of the association’s work. Since 1997, the members of “Forkys” have voluntarily supported the Ithaca Municipal Cinema. Since 2015, the team has launched an open-air cinema, offering free movie screenings in collaboration with Ithaca’s philanthropic clubs.
The screenings take place in various locations across the island, from outdoor spaces to local cafes, meeting the entertainment needs of the islanders, particularly during the summer season. Over the past six years, “Forkys” has also organized the Thernon short-film festival, showcasing creations from around the world, m. Taphlabas is mentioning.
Nature Hiking Club of Ithaca – "The TRA-GO-dians"
The Nature Hiking Club of Ithaca, "The TRA-GO-dians," was founded in November 2021 by Tilemachos Gavanozis, an individual deeply connected to nature. "Since childhood, I have been a nature enthusiast. During the pandemic, as I started hiking the mountains of Ithaca, the idea of creating a club was born—a non-profit organization aimed at showcasing the natural beauty of our island," he explains.
Today, the club has 30-40 members spanning a wide age range, from children and parents to individuals aged 60-65, with the majority being women aged 40-45.
Weekly Routes and Special Activities
Every Friday, the weekly route is announced, which is then carried out on Sunday. On average, 15 participants explore Ithaca’s trails each week. "There are trails of archaeological interest, others of historical significance, and, of course, those that reveal unique natural beauty," Mr. Gavanozis emphasizes.
"A characteristic example is the trail leading to Anogi, where there is a church featuring rare depictions, including one of Satan," he adds. The club also plans to expand its activities beyond Ithaca in collaboration with other associations from different regions.
Collective Initiatives Thrive in Ithaca
Ithaca boasts numerous associations that contribute to preserving the island’s social and cultural life. "We aim to offer alternative options to visitors as well as residents, encouraging them to leave their homes and remain active during the winter months. Without these initiatives, our island would be more isolated," Mr. Gavanozis remarks.
The TRA-GO-dians are more than a hiking group; they are a community promoting respect for nature, history, and culture, offering participants experiences that connect people with their environment.
The associations of Ithaca form the backbone of the island’s social and cultural vitality. Through their love for tradition, art, sports, and nature, these groups sustain a vibrant collective spirit. Whether through theatrical performances, hikes, festivals, or athletic events, Ithaca’s associations demonstrate that in a small place, determination and passion can highlight its cultural wealth and natural beauty.
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