Dikteon Cave
Dikteon Cave: The Bethlehem of the Ancient World
Nestled in the heart of Crete lies the Dikteon Andron Cave, also known as the Psychro Cave or just Dikteon Cave. Steeped in myth and history, this captivating cavern has lured visitors for millennia. But what exactly makes this cave so special? Let’s delve into its depths and explore its secrets.
A Cradle of Myth and History
Dikteon Cave’s claim to fame rests on its legendary association with Zeus “Kritogenis” (meaning: born in Crete), the king of the Greek gods.
According to mythology, Rhea, Zeus’s mother, hid in this cave to give birth to him, fearing his father, Cronus, who devoured his own children.
The reason for Cronus’s actions was due to a fear of a prophecy that one of them was going to dethrone him.
After Zeus’s birth, his mother, Rhea, tricked Cronus into devouring a stone that was wrapped in cloth.
Here, the young god was raised by the nymph Amalthea, under the protection of the Kouretes, and fed on goat’s milk.
After a while, the baby Zeus was moved to Ideon Andron Cave, where he grew up strong enough to face Cronus and free his brothers from his belly.
Archaeological evidence confirms the cave’s significance as a religious site.
Findings point to its use as far back as the Neolithic period (c. 6000–3000 BCE).
However, the Minoan civilization (c. 2700–1450 BCE) truly cemented the cave’s sacred status.
Artifacts like statuettes, pottery, and double axes hint at Minoan rituals and offerings within the cave.
This veneration continued through Roman times, solidifying the Dikteon Cave’s enduring role as a place of worship.
Some of the artifacts that were retrieved from these excavations are on display in the Archeological Museum of Heraklion.
A Climb Through Time
Dikteon Cave resides on the Lasithi Plateau in eastern Crete, near the village of Psychro.
Reaching the cave requires a scenic climb up hundreds of steps to an altitude of 1025 meters.
While the climb might test your legs, the panoramic views of the plateau are a worthy reward.
There are two paths leading to the cave from the parking lot. The easiest path is the left one, because on the right one, which is the oldest, the stones are worn by the march of thousands of tourists, and it might be slippery.
If you do not wish to walk, there are “taxi” donkeys to transfer visitors to the cave.
The entrance itself is a dramatic opening into the mountainside. Inside, a labyrinthine network of chambers awaits exploration.
Uneven, slippery surfaces and low ceilings are part of the cave’s character, so proper footwear and a sense of adventure are essential. Descend carefully through the slick passageways, marveling at the natural wonders that surround you.
Near the entrance of the cave, there is a kiosk where you can buy tickets for a small price. The cave, which has an area of 2200 sq. m, is well lit, and the paths in it come along a well-designed path of 250 m in length.
Witnessing the Wonders Within
The Dikteon Cave boasts a variety of geological formations that have captivated visitors for centuries. Stalactites (formations hanging from the ceiling) and stalagmites (formations rising from the floor) create an otherworldly atmosphere.
One particularly impressive stalactite, nicknamed “The Mantle of Zeus,” is a highlight, adding to the cave’s mythological mystique.
Beyond the natural beauty, remnants of the cave’s past linger within. Keep an eye out for ancient cisterns used to collect rainwater, a testament to Minoan ingenuity. Discover niches where offerings were placed, whispering tales of bygone rituals.
The Dikteon Cave offers more than just a glimpse into the past, it’s an immersive experience. Imagine yourself walking the same path as ancient worshippers, feeling the cool, damp air, and hearing the echoing symphony of dripping water. With a little imagination, the myths and legends of the Dikteon Cave come alive.
More Mythology
Crete and Greece in general have a rich history and even richer mythology and folklore.
According to another tradition, King Minos visited Dikteon Cave every nine years when the moon and sun’s orbits converged. There, he met his father, Zeus, and established new laws to govern Crete. As a result, Minos was associated with absolute justice, which elevated him to the position of judge in Hades after his death. This myth is a variation on the main one, telling the same story of Ideon Cave.
Also, it is said that Dikteon Cave was the home of the Harpies. These mythological creatures had the upper body of a woman and the lower body of a bird. They served as the punishers of the gods.
Another version of the renowned mythology of Europa states that when Zeus changed into a bull and seduced Europa, he took her to the Dicteon Cave rather than Gortyn. He showed himself and mated with her. Europa produced Minos, Sarpedon, and Radamanthys.
The cave is also tied with the story of Epimenides. The father of Epimenides sent him one day to find one of their lost sheep, and he accidentally ended up in the cave, where he fell asleep and woke up 57 years later. His age was the same, but he gained wisdom and the ability to see the future and make prophecies. He is also known for the directions he gave to Jason and his Argonauts.
Exploring Psychro Village near Dikteon Cave
Nestled beside the legendary Dikteon Cave, at an altitude of 828 meters, the village of Psychro offers a tranquil escape after your spelunking adventure. While the cave steals the spotlight for its historical significance, Psychro Village boasts its own unique charm.
Being one of the 18 villages in the Lassithi Plateau, it dates back to Venetian rule, being one of the villages that had agricultural practices. Today, it still remains an agricultural village with beautiful narrow, cobbled alleyways and a fountain decorating its center.
Psychro’s tavernas are the heart of the village. Savor authentic Cretan cuisine prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Indulge in dishes like fluffy cheese pies (kalitsounia), slow-cooked stews (στιφάδο-stifado), and succulent grilled meats. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a glass of the local raki, a potent grape spirit.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN dikteon cave
Enjoy the hike towards the Cave
Try a donkey taxi for the experience
Take in the panoramic views of the Lassithi Plateau
Refresh at the kiosk before you enter
Descend at the Cave
Take your time and inspect the millenia old rock formations
Learn the stories tied to the Cave
Walk around Psychro Village
Enjoy a traditional Cretan meal before you leave
Getting there
By Rental Car:
This offers the most flexibility and allows you to explore the cave and surrounding area at your own pace. The drive from Heraklion to Dikteon Cave is about an hour and seven minutes, following the Epar.Od. Neapolis-Chersonisos and Epar.Od. Mesa Lasithiou-Kastelliou roads. While driving, be aware that there are many twists and turns on the mountain roads, so take your time and enjoy the scenery. There is a parking lot near the cave entrance where you can leave your car. We recommend using a G.P.S. to navigate.
By Taxi:
This is a convenient option if you don’t want to deal with renting a car. However, it will be the most expensive option. Taxis can be hailed in Heraklion or arranged through your hotel. The fare will vary depending on the traffic and the time of day, but we can’t be sure about the price.
By Bus with Taxi Transfer:
Public transportation directly to Dikteon Cave is limited to none. A more viable option is to take a bus from Heraklion to a nearby town like Malia or Stalis, and then hail a taxi to complete the journey to the cave. This will likely be cheaper than a taxi all the way from Heraklion, but it will require some planning and coordination.
Conclusion
The Dikteon Cave is a must-visit for anyone interested in Greek mythology, history, or stunning natural formations. So, lace up your walking shoes, embrace your inner explorer, and embark on a journey to this legendary birthplace of gods.
ADDITIONAL TIPS FOR AN ENJOYABLE VISIT TO dikteon cave
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May 16, 2024
