If you’re travelling to or staying on a luxury accommodation in Antiparos, amongst the beauties of it, you should definitely pay a visit to the legendary Cave of Antiparos, which is located in the middle part of eastern Antiparos and the a history of which goes all the way back to ancient Greece and even to the stone age. A magnificent work of art, gracefully given to us by Mother Nature and a true treasure of the island! The locals used to call it “Katafygi” and the stories that have been born for it are truly enchanting, as will your journey be, if you decide to take a walk inside…
Ancient History
Even though it’s not mentioned in historical sources, inside the cave, evidence can be found to prove that it did, in fact, exist prehistorically, such as the shells and human bones that were revealed during Archaeological excavations and can now be seen on display at the Parikia Archaeological Museum of Paros. During the time of Alexander the Great, the cave had many visitors, while there’s also an inscription indicating that Archilochus, the great lyric poet of the 7th century BC was born in Paros. However the indications do not stop there. Letters of the Greek alphabet could be found on a huge stalagmite at the entrance, until the 19th century. Factors, that made the cave’s archaic legacy unquestionable.
Cave of Wonders!
Located 171 meters above sea level, the 5.6000 square meters cave is very secluded, while its temperature during winter is around 15 degrees Celcius and its maximum depth is 85 meters, its length is 89 meters, its width is 70 meters, while its height goes only up to 40 meters. However you shouldn’t let the depth scare you! The descent is easy, since a staircase made of cement is formed and can provide safety. The cave also consists of three different halls, The First Hall, “Thalamos to Petrinon Katarrakton” (Chamber of the Stone Waterfalls), the Second Hall, “Thalamos tou Kathedrikou Naou” (Chamber of the Cathedral), and the Third Hall, ‘Vasiliki’ (Royal), that’s named after Queen Amalia, consort to Greece’s King Otto, when they visited on September 27th, 1840 and also left their inscription, as many famous people have done in the past.
The majestic, arched, 20 meters entrance will leave you breathless and in absolute awe, while the inscription that can still be seen today, writes “Here Christ himself celebrated Midnight Mass on Christmas 1673″ and marks the beginning of a great, spiritual adventure. The stalagmites and stalactites shapes and forms are as affected by the slope of the ground, as they are also affected by your own fantasy! Stories, legends and tales have been inspired by that magical place that you shouldn’t miss the chance to visit… Book your luxury accommodation in Antiparos now, for a fairytale of your own!
