Explore Zoodochos Pigi Cave in Santorini
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The Greek island of Santorini is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. It’s hard to disagree with that fact when you see the beaches of various colored sand, the red cliffs, and the charming villages. Watching the sun set over the caldera is quite a treat when visiting Santorini. When there is so much to experience in one place, it’s hard to know where to begin. You won’t want to miss exploring Zoodochos Pigi Cave. Here’s what you need to know about Zoodochos Pigi Cave in Santorini.
About Zoodochos Pigi Cave
Located in Santorini, on the road from Kamari to Ancient Thira, is Zoodochos Cave. The natural spring in the cave is the only source of fresh water on the island of Santorini. Zoodochos Pigi Cave measures 25 meters long. It is named after the church that is found at the entrance of the cave. The cave features stalactites and stalagmites.
During antiquity, the spring was connected to Ancient Thira by the main road that leaves the city and leads north. Part of the ancient city still remain today, which can be seen just slightly lower than the modern path in front of the spring. The water of the spring drips from the ceiling into a natural basin. This basin was created by the water that falls. There are cuttings in the rock of Zoodochos Cave that seem to show that there were water management works. The lower part of a channel can be seen today that measure just under one meter. It would carry water from the spring to the front of the cave.
It is thought that travelers would stop and rest at the cave. Inscriptions dating back to the Archaic period, bearing names, were carved into the surface of the stones around the spring.
Explore Zoodochos Pigi Cave in Santorini
The walk to Zoodochos Pigi Cave is quite lovely. You follow a narrow path up that will lead you straight there. Inside the cave, you will get a first hand look at the natural spring. It’s important to know that sometimes the gate to the cave is locked. If it’s open, you can go in, but take a source of light as it’s dark inside. From the top of the cave, you will be treated to a breathtaking view of Kamari.
If you are visiting the ruins of Ancient Thira above the cave at the top of the mountain, you can take a trail down to Zoodochos Pigi Cave. You will follow the trail leading to Kamari. When visiting the cave and church, make sure to wear good shoes as the hike up and down can be rough.
Once on the island of Santorini, you can get to Zoodochos Pigi Cave by taking a bus that goes to the archaeological site of Ancient Thira, which sits above the cave. From there you can walk down to the cave. You can even get pick up and drop of at your hotel if you prefer. This is a convenient way to see both sites.
Categorized in: About Santorini, Greece, Greek Travel Guide
This post was written by Greek Boston
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