Cave of Melidoni, Archaeological cave site in Melidoni Rethymni, Greece
Cave of Melidoni is a natural cave with stalactites and stalagmites located in central Crete. The entrance sits at about 220 meters elevation and opens into several spacious chambers displaying diverse limestone formations.
The cave was first settled during the Neolithic period and served as a living space for various cultures across millennia. A tragic event in 1824 left a permanent mark on the site and regional memory.
The cave served as a refuge and shelter for people across many centuries of habitation. Today it functions as a memorial space where visitors come to remember a pivotal moment in local history.
The cave is easily accessible and straightforward to visit, with well-marked paths that require no special experience. Wear comfortable shoes since the floor can be uneven and temperatures inside are cool.
Archaeological excavations have uncovered tools, pottery, and religious objects from different time periods, revealing how people used the space across multiple epochs. The artifacts span from the Stone Age through the Roman period.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
