Melidoni, Μελιδόνι, Rethimno 740 52, Greece

Exploring Melidoni Cave in Crete, Greece

26 February 2017


With its spirited culture, fascinating ancient antiquity and beautiful scenery, its no wonder why Greece is one of the greatest travel destination in the world. I was amazed enough by the country's spectacular views but the myths of each place will definitely make the experience more haunting and memorable.


Melidoni Cave is one of the three caves that we visited in Crete. After 76 km, an hour drive, twisty road, getting lost, we finally found the cave. You definitely need a car and a good map to get there...

The cave is situated in the mountain and the view from the Taverna's terrace above is breathtakingly beautiful. To enter the cave, we had to pay few euros which is pretty modest.


So I took the first step going down to the cave. When I was only steps away.... my skin felt the coldness from the inside. I felt anxious and waited for Claas to lead the way. We were alone and we had the place only for ourselves to explore. It is spooky but indeed beautiful.



According to the myth, Melidoni cave was a central place of worship. It was the mythical home of Talos (the man of Bronze in Greek Mythology). He used to circle the island of Crete three times daily to keep the Island safe from pirates and invaders. They also said that Hermes (son of Zeus and Pleiad Maia) was also worshiped inside.



I had cold hands and feet after I read the terrible history of Melidoni Cave. Over 350 men, women, and children were suffocated by smoke when Turks blocked and started a fire at the very entrance. So you see, behind is a communal tomb and a plaque which is placed there to commemorate the lost lives in 1824.


The stone formations are amazing. The lights illuminated the whole cave and stone structures. My body shivered as it is wet and cold inside... I was just wearing a thin laced dress cause it was burning hot outside. But I must say that the whole experience was good and very interesting. The cave is beautifully kept and definitely a worth to visit...


To view some of our video clips from Greece, just click here and enjoy!

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