Rethymno Ideon Cave

Location: Anogia

The Cave of Ideon Andron is located on the eastern slopes of Mount Psiloritis, 78 km from Rethymno Town. According to mythology, it is the place where the god Zeus was raised after his mother goddess Rhea hid him there to save him from his father Kronos, who wanted to kill him. The cavern has great archeological value, as Zeus and his mother used to be worshiped there until Roman times. Archaeologists have discovered votive offerings, including a well-preserved bronze shield, spears, and gold and ivory figures. The findings are exhibited at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.

The main entrance opens into a 40-meter-long and 50-meter-wide chamber with two horizontal caverns, while another cavern was discovered high above it. The caverns have been sculpted naturally by the water, presenting impressive stalagmite and stalactite formations.

The road to the cave is scenic, featuring lovely mountainous landscapes and tall rock formations.