Volimes - the community

Volimes, a picturesque village located in the northern part of Zakynthos, and our local village, has a rich and storied history that reflects the cultural, social, and economic evolution of the island. Nestled in the hills, Volimes has long been a rural community, its identity shaped by its strategic position, natural resources, and connection to the broader history of Zakynthos. Over the centuries, the village has witnessed many key historical events, from its days under Venetian rule to its involvement in Greece's fight for independence and its resilience during the turbulent 20th century.

Venetian Era and Early Development

Volimes, like much of Zakynthos, experienced considerable influence from the Venetian Republic, which ruled the island from 1484 until 1797. During this time, the Venetians introduced many of their architectural styles and administrative systems, many of which left a lasting impact on the local culture. While much of the island’s coastal regions were more heavily developed under Venetian rule, the northern village of Volimes remained relatively rural, with its inhabitants primarily engaged in agriculture, particularly the cultivation of olives and vineyards. The fertile soil and mild climate provided an ideal setting for farming, and agriculture became the foundation of the village’s economy.

The Venetians were known for their fortifications and their system of local governance, which included overseeing the island’s smaller villages. However, Volimes was not a focal point for military or political power during this time, and it largely maintained a quiet existence compared to the bustling port city of Zakynthos Town. Instead, Volimes was known for its self-sufficiency, with its residents managing their agricultural activities and slowly developing the village into a community centred around farming and trade.

Greek War of Independence and Ottoman Influence

With the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797, Zakynthos came under the control of the French for a brief period, followed by the Russian and Ottoman occupation until 1821, when Greece began its struggle for independence. During the Greek War of Independence, many of Zakynthos’ villages, including Volimes, were affected by the turmoil of the conflict. Volimes, being a rural area, was somewhat isolated from the larger battles that took place in Zakynthos Town and the more populated regions, but the villagers were not immune to the economic hardships and political upheaval of the time.

The island was ultimately liberated from Ottoman control and became part of the newly independent Greek state in 1828. The impact of the war was felt across Zakynthos, and Volimes, like other villages, had to rebuild and adapt to the new social and political realities. The war also led to the rise of local leaders and the establishment of Greek governance, with new opportunities for economic development emerging.

20th Century: Development and Challenges

In the 20th century, Volimes began to experience significant change as the broader island of Zakynthos became increasingly integrated into Greece’s modern economy. The development of tourism, particularly in the second half of the century, brought new opportunities to Volimes, even though it remained more rural compared to the tourist-heavy regions of Laganas or Tsilivi. Agriculture, especially olive oil production, continued to be a key economic driver for the village. Local families continued to work the land, producing olive oil, wine, and citrus fruits, and Volimes became known for its high-quality local products.

However, like much of Greece, Volimes faced numerous challenges during the 20th century. The island was heavily impacted by the 1943 Axis occupation during World War II, followed by the Greek Civil War (1946-1949). These turbulent periods led to hardship and destruction, with many villages, including Volimes, suffering from the consequences of occupation and conflict. Despite these setbacks, the village managed to rebuild, and its agricultural roots allowed it to regain stability over time.

In 1953, a devastating earthquake struck Zakynthos, severely damaging the infrastructure of the island and leading to the destruction of many buildings, including those in Volimes. However, the villagers displayed resilience, rebuilding their homes and infrastructure in the aftermath of the disaster. The earthquake prompted significant changes to the island's architecture, with more modern construction methods being adopted in the rebuilding process.

Present Day: Cultural Heritage and Tourism

Today, Volimes is a charming and serene village, offering visitors a glimpse of traditional Zakynthian life, while also embracing modernity through eco-tourism and agricultural tourism. The village’s history of olive oil production has made it a hub for visitors wanting to learn about the island’s agricultural traditions, and the scenic landscapes surrounding Volimes are now part of the island's appeal for nature lovers. The village is also home to many local artisans, including those specializing in pottery and handicrafts, continuing the long tradition of artisanry that has defined the area.

The proximity of Volimes to the famous Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach) and the Blue Caves has also made the village a point of interest for tourists exploring the northern part of Zakynthos. Visitors to Volimes often take the opportunity to explore the rugged coastlines, enjoy local food, and immerse themselves in the history and culture of this idyllic village.

Conclusion

Volimes, Zakynthos, is a village deeply rooted in the history and culture of the island. From its Venetian foundations to its involvement in Greece’s independence and its post-war struggles, the village has witnessed many historical milestones. Despite the challenges of war, occupation, and natural disasters, Volimes has maintained its agricultural traditions and developed into a quiet, picturesque destination for those seeking an authentic experience of Zakynthos. Today, it serves as both a cultural hub and a serene retreat, offering visitors a chance to step back in time while enjoying the natural beauty of one of Greece’s most beloved islands.