A cultic cave with more than 3000 years of history. The ascent is arduous and only recommended in the early morning in summer. The cave entrance is difficult to find (not where you suspect it is behind a wall and as my predecessor described it, but about 50 m above to the right). Access requires some climbing, especially downhill, not without it. The entrance to the first cave chamber is about 50 cm high, similar to the one in the second chamber. Torch absolutely necessary. You should have a head for heights and not be claustrophobic.
A study carried out as part of the Sphakia Survey (Oxford University, t1p.de/agiasmatzi) shows that the cave functioned as a place of worship especially in the Hellenistic-Roman period (100 BC +/- 200). On the basis of the numerous ceramic finds (e.g. ladles, cups, pots and oil lamps, but also pigs and cattle bones) it can be concluded that ritual food and drink were used there in that era. When Crete was largely Christianized in the 3rd century - the two early Christian churches in Frangokastelo, Agios Nikitas and Astratigos, testify to this - the cave seems to have been used primarily for beekeeping, which is indicated by fragments of ceramic bees' baskets.

Translated by Google •

In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!

Details

Informations

Elevation 320 m

Weather

Today

Sunday 9 November

19°C

18°C

0 %

If you start your activity now...

Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h

See hikes here

Take Me There

Location: Περιφερειακή Ενότητα Χανίων, Greece

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Stone Arch in Imbros Gorge

Peristeres Beach

Orthi Ammos Beach

Taverna T'Armi tou Kallikrati

Wildlife in Kallikratis Gorge

Asfendou Gorge

Memorial Statues at Frangokastello

View of Argiroupoli

Cave in Kourtaliotiko Gorge

Rest Area in Imbros Gorge

Narrow Passage in the Gorge

Imbros Gorge Narrow Passage

Agiasmatzi Cave (Spilaio Agiasmatzi)

Other Popular Places to Check Out

We value your privacy ⛰️

We value your privacy ⛰️