Kefalonia
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Ib 1953 the Greek island of Kefalonia suffered a devastating earthquake that measured 6.8 on the moment magnitude scale.
Most of the island suffered structural damage apart from the town of Fiskcardo in the north of the island,
After the eartquake many islanders emigrated but some remained.
Today Kefalonia is a popular holiday destination and gained fame when the film Captain Corelli's mandolin was filmed there eighteen years ago.
I have been lucky to have been there on holiday seven times now and never get tired of going there.
On the twelfth of August in nineteen fifty three
Tectonic plates moved in the Ionian sea
A massive earthquake bringing destruction and death
Caused kefalonia to draw her last breath.
Buildings were flattened and many lives were lost
It has since been rebuilt at an enormous cost
Fiskcardo in the north was the only town spared
A cry for help was answered because the world cared.
British and Israelis' were the first to arrive
Helped all those poor souls who managed to survive
Bringing medical care and much needed supplies
Helped the search for those buried, listening for their cries.
Many emigrated and they moved far away
Couldn't cope with the horrors they witnessed that day
But some did remain and with help rebuilt their lives
Now a bustling destination, tourism thrives.
The film Captain Corelli brought the island fame
Now everyone has heard of this Greek islands name
Drive up the mountain amongst the tall green pine trees
And below see the view of crystal clear seas.
With its uncrowded beaches of white dazzling sand
It is a beautiful place so fine and so grand
Visit the island if you ever get a chance
Enjoy their cuisine and wine and join in the dance.
Some ruins of the buildings stand like a shrine
Reminds you that this island is on a fault line.
Greek's are proud people; will never admit defeat
And will dance in defiance at what lies at their feet.
Written 4th June 2019.
Copyright © Tom Cunningham | Year Posted 2019
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