When the sun sets over the Ionian Sea, “bloodying” the steep cliffs, legends come to life at the southernmost tip of the island, at rugged Cape Lefkatas (also known as Cavo tis Kyras or Cavo Doukato). This is said to be the place described by Homer as the “White Rock”; it is also where human sacrifices were made in ancient times to appease the gods, and later the site of a temple dedicated to Apollo. Criminals are said to have been thrown from the top of the cliffs to purify their souls (if they survived the fall, their life would be spared).

But the place came to be most strongly associated with unrequited love, as a true lovers’ leap. According to a legend that has its roots in the 6^th century BC, lovers whose feelings had not been reciprocated would jump off the cliff, the first being the Greek lyric poet Sappho. The attractive lighthouse was built in 1890 on the site of the ancient temple, from which visitors can experience some truly awesome sunsets. Some of course have their photo taken, as they supposedly prepare to take that… final, fateful step.