Lefkada Town is the capital of the island located at its north eastern side. With a population of nearly 8.000 permanent residents, it is the administrative, economic and cultural centre of Lefkada. The capital lies around the natural harbour. The major earthquakes that occur in 1948 and 1953 destroyed almost the entire island, and only some churches and a few historical monuments have survived. This lively part of the town offers various accommodations, cafes and shops. On the other side is the central square of the town, called Agios Spyridon, which owes its name to the 17th century church that stands on the square. Other interesting and beautiful churches can be found in the capital such as the 18th century church of Agios Nikolaos, the 17th century church of Agios Dimitrios, the 18th century church of Pantokrator and the church of the Presentation of the Virgin as well as the monastery of Panagia Faneromeni. Most of these churches house fine works from the Ionian School of Painting.