Idaeon Antron

On the plateau of Nida, on the eastern sides of Mount Ida, Idaeon Antron, the cave of Mount Ida (Psiloritis) is to be found at an altitude of 1538m. It is one of the most important cultic caves of Minoan Crete as it is mythologically linked with the god Zeus.

Research in the cave has been carried out since the early 20th century, yet the systematic archaeological research, carried out by the Archaeological Society and Ioannis and Efi Sakellarakis in 1982-1985, documented the uninterrupted human presence in Idaeon Antron from the 4th millennium BC to the 5th century BC.

Tour

Upon entering the cave, the visitor will be impressed by the huge opening, which leads to a large central hall and a 22-meter long side gallery.

Archaeological findings confirm sporadic occupation during the final Neolithic period (3300-3000 BC), while in the last half of the 3rd millennium BC, it is suggested that the cave was first used for worship. The cave was most frequented by visitors during the Geometric and Archaic periods (10th-6th century BC).

In the Classical period (5th century BC), written sources refer to the cult practised in the cave and attribute to it a mystical and chthonic character.

During the Hellenistic and Roman times (4th century BC – 4th century AD), the cave continued to be a very important cult center until the time of Julian the Apostate (mid-4th century AD).

Must see

The importance of the cave is documented by numerous and precious offerings: vases of various sizes, elaborate vessels, figurines, unique ivory seals, jewelry, miniature gold vessels and semi-precious stone necklaces. It is also worth mentioning the bronze votive shields dating to the 8th-7th century BC with engraved and forged representations, some of the finest works of art of the ancient world, which the visitors can see at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.