[1] In the Middle Ages, Ionian islands were subject to frequent pirate raids, which forced inhabitants to build settlements inland.

Wealth from shipbuilding, trade and fishing caused expansion of population and house construction.

[3] Vathy was devastated by the 1953 Ionian earthquake which left only a few buildings standing.

A law was passed in 1978 protecting the architectural heritage of the town, mandating that style and colour of all repairs and new constructions must be preserved.

[3] Islet of Lazareto at the entrance to the Bay of Vathy hosts the chapel dedicated to the Transfiguration of the Savior, built in 1668.