The Greek Speleological Society has recorded over 3.000 caves in Crete. They are not only astounding examples of nature’s talent for interior decoration, but also many of them are also of great scientific value.
The Minoans began the custom of worshipping their gods in small palaces or shrines, in sacred caves and in shrines built on mountain peaks and hill tops.
The Cave of SFEDONI Zoniana: It is the wealthiest in Crete in terms of natural decoration
The Diktaian Cave: The legendary birthplace of Zeus, this can be reached by going to the outskirts of the village of Psihro (48 km from Heraklion)
The Idaian Cave: According to mythology, Rhea hid the baby Zeus from the murderous Kronos. Cult objects have been found here, along with statues and bronze shields
The Cave of Eileithyia (Ilithiia): Used to be a cave of ritual cults from Neolithic era up to the 5th century B.C.
The Cave of Ag. Paraskevi Skotinou: Very interesting cave where cult worship used to be held both in antiquity and during the Christian era
The Kamares Cave:Established during the Minoan period as a sacred spot, possibly dedicated to the worship of the goddess Eileithyia
The Gerani Cave of Rethimon: A cave of Prehistoric, Paleontological and archeological interest
The Melidoni Cave: Used to be a cult worship cave during the Neolithic, Minoan and Archaic periods
