Höhlen Geheimtipp

Cave of Eileithyia

Heraklion, Heraklion

About

Ancient cave of the goddess of childbirth.

The cave of Eileithyia lies about 1 km south of Amnisos, near Heraklion. It was dedicated to Eileithyia, the goddess of childbirth, and is mentioned by Homer in the Odyssey. The cave was used from Neolithic times until the Roman period.

Inside, a stalagmite in the middle looks like a female figure, and it was probably the focus of worship. Pottery and other offerings found in the cave are now in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

The cave is usually closed, but you can see the entrance from the road. It's a short detour if you're visiting Amnisos.

The cave was in use from the Neolithic to Roman times, and pottery from every period was found inside, showing how long people came here to ask the goddess for help with childbirth. A low wall surrounded the central stalagmite, and worshippers seem to have rubbed it for good luck. Even if you can't go in, the site is a reminder of how old the traditions around Amnisos and Knossos are.

Highlights & amenities

Entry: Free

Around Heraklion

Heraklion is the heart of Minoan Crete and the island’s busiest region. Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum are the two places almost everyone visits, and they work well together on one day. In the south, the wide Messara plain holds the palace of Phaistos, the Roman ruins of Gortyna and the famous caves above the bay of Matala. More about Heraklion