Visit to the Cave of Antiparos

Explore the Cave

Antiparos Cave is very large, extending over several levels. Its maximum depth is about 85 meters, with a length of 89 meters and a maximum width of almost 60 meters.

Inscriptions on the walls of the cave are proof of its many prominent visitors dating back to the Neolithic period. Some notable visitors include Alexander the Great, King Otto, the Marquis de Nointel (ambassador of France), and the lyric poet Archilochus of Paros.

Originally, the Cave of Agios Ioannis provided shelter and was later used as a worship place for the goddess Artemis.

The stalactites and stalagmites in the cave change form according to the inspiration and imagination of each visitor. The cave is located 171 meters above sea level, is precipitous, and has an interior temperature of about 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) in winter. It covers an area of approximately 5,600 square meters. The descent into the cave is easy and secure, facilitated by a cement staircase of 411 steps.

The cave is divided into the ‘Antechamber’ and three additional halls: ‘The Chamber of the Stone Waterfalls,’ ‘The Chamber of the Cathedral,’ and ‘The Royal Chamber.’ The huge stalagmite found at the entrance is 45 million years old, the oldest in Europe, and is called ‘The Huge Central Column.’

‘The Royal Chamber’ was named after the visit of King Otto and Queen Amalia. While its adornment may not be the most impressive, it is nonetheless commanding.

At the entrance, there are two picturesque little churches named Agios Ioannis (Ai Yiannis) Spiliotis and Zoodohos Pigi. The lyric poet Archilochus of Paros is said to have left an inscription in the cave. In 1673, the Marquis de Nointel, French ambassador to the Ottoman Empire, visited the cave for three days with numerous companions and celebrated mass on Christmas Day within it. Later visitors who carved their names include Lord Byron and the first king of Greece, Otto.

During the German occupation, part of the cave was destroyed. At the entrance of the cave, the beautiful church of Agios Ioannis Spiliotis was built.