Archaeological History 

In contrast to the rich history of Ithaca, the archaeological research has been comparatively limited, with a substantial amount of excavation taking place during the early 20th Century.

William Gell, considered the pioneer of archaeological study on the island, began his scientifically based research in 1806, but did not continue with methodical excavations. Nevertheless he is credited with the discovery of a part of ancient inscription found near Vathy, probably from the Temple of Artemis.

After Gell, several other archaeologists came to Ithaca, some dealing illegally in antiquities and secretly undertaking excavations. Among these archaeologists were Leake (1806), Charles de Bosset (1810-1813) and Lee. However, Leakes studies recorded that there was a Spring at the Late Helladic cult site at Aetos. By the time it was properly excavated in 1932, it had dried up, but conclusions had been made that the cult was centered around it. Lee was in cooperation with Baron Stackelberg and divided the precious objects they found between them. Some of the objects thought to have been taken were a bronze prehistoric sword found at Aetos, similar to the one found at the Cave of Louizos, various pieces of gold jewelry, glass and clay bowls, pottery, tools, copper, silver and gold coins.

The local conqueror Guitera (1811-1814) plundered 200 tombs at the Aetos area, melted some of the gold and silver coins and sold the metal with the other treasures abroad.

After the Unification of Ithaca with Greece in 1864, there were more organized excavations.  Schliemann was the first to systematically organize the digs in 1868 and 1878. Other archaeologists followed until the beginning of the 20th century.  From the research and excavations of this period a variety of important objects were found.  Most of them are now either in the two museums of Ithaca or in the National Archaeological Museum of Athens.
The excavations in 1930 at the hill of Pilicata, under Heurtley's supervision, British School at Athens, was considered one of the most important. A variety of discoveries proved that the area was inhabited as early as the Neolithic Period.   A wall surrounding the hill, foundations of buildings, graves of the Mycenaean period and different objects indicate that civilization continued and that this area was of great significance.

A significant excavation took place in Polis at Louizos Cave by Heurtley's assistant, Sylvia Benton of the BSA. The findings there, proved that it had been a place of worship from 2500 B.C. until the 1st century A.D.  A clay mask, that of a female, with Odysseus' name engraved on it, was found in the cave. This mask is another strong indication that links the identity of the island to that of Homer's writings.   Ithacan arts and crafts were very similar to those in other Greek Kingdoms of significance, and even further afiield during that period. The Ithacans were also skilled potters, judging by the local pottery.

In 1931 and 1932, Heurtley undertook excavations at the Aetos area. He discovered ruins of buildings, ancient temples, everyday articles and many Corinthian objects of worship.   Also of significance are the nine different types of coins found from the 4th and 3rd centuries B.C. These coins refer to Ithaca and Odysseus as well as various symbols or gods.

From the research and excavations that have taken place, it has been proven that civilization has existed on Ithaca for the past 6000 years with some periods showing large settlements. The main settlement was on the northern peninsula of Ithaca, around the hill of Pilikata, later, at Aetos.

Over the decades, ruins from the Roman period, along with other previous periods, have been discovered around Vathy and Southern Ithaca, but the progress has been slow. Excavations of Ithaca are considered to be incomplete.  It is believed that there are numerous objects and ruins waiting to be discovered so that they may enlighten us further about the ancient history of Ithaca.