Beta
CAVE
The cave
Internal Configuration
The History
The Cave of Antiparos is one of more beautiful and the most important of the world. And that's why, except enchanting natural attraction, inextricably linked to history of the place and causes great archaeological interest, due to the findings of the Stone Age discovered inside. The engraved inscriptions, too, that "adorn" it are an inexhaustible source of stories, legends and information for its famous - and non-famous - visitors, like a book of impressions, the first page of which was written hundreds of years before the birth of Christ.
Description
Many centuries ago, the roof of the front part was torn down, resulting in the creation of the arched entrance of the cave. In the outdoor and semi-outdoor area created by the precipitation, were built two picturesque churches, which communicate with each other and are very dear to the Antipariotes and visitors. Ai Giannis Spiliotis and Zoodochos Pigi. Although the second is smaller and older, the first has given its name to the whole mountain of Agios Ioannis (or Vounali of Ai Giannis) but also to the cave itself that many call "Ai Giannis Cave".
THE entrance of the cave is called "Antechamber" and consists of three levels. The first and highest, the "Covered Square", is paved with concrete and benches have been placed around it. The second, the "Hidden Chamber", is separated from the first by a huge stalagmite, the oldest in Europe, named "Peloria Central Column" and stalagmites to its right and left, which look like statues. In "Kolona" the ropes were tied old, to go down to the main cave. The third level of the "Foyer" extends with a kind of corridor, at the end of which a railing door leads to the pre-eminent interior of the cave. At this level, and at a height of about three meters from the floor, there is a small opening that reveals a chamber measuring 20x10 meters, known as the "Crypt". Archaeological excavations in this area during 1974-75 revealed shells and human bones that are now in the Museum of Paros. Passing the railing door you are in the heart of the cave, which is divided into three "rooms
How to go
By car or bicycle: From the port of Antiparos, on the left from where the boat leaves you from Pounta, starts the asphalt road that leads to the cave. The parking lot of the cave is very large and comfortable.
By public bus: From the port of Antiparos, below the square of Agia Marina, is the bus stop. Regular itineraries to the cave.
On foot: Walking trails are a magical experience. From Molos (Port) is estimated at about 1.5 hours. From the small settlement of Agios Georgios, hiking, along with a little comfortable mountaineering, lasting a total of two and a half hours, will excite nature lovers. This road used to be followed by those who wanted to visit the cave, when the weather did not allow transportation by sea.