The dark entrance of the sea cave of Chrysospilia in the cliff face north of Karavostasis.
caveOptional

Chrysospilia

Photo: Greece Field Guide

The Verdict

A sea cave on the cliff north of the port with the names of ancient boys scratched inside — rarely reachable, and that is the point.

Why go

Chrysospilia, the golden cave, opens in the cliff face north of Karavostasis and was used in antiquity, most likely for a coming-of-age ritual: the walls carry inscriptions left by young men, along with traces of offerings. There is no road and no path; it is approached by boat from the port, and landing is often restricted to protect the site. Ask locally before counting on it.

Time needed
1-2 hours
Best for
History · Quiet
Skip if
you want a cave you can walk into · you are only on the island for one night
Best months
June, July, September
Crowd reality
Quiet
Car needed
No Car Needed
Recommendation
Optional

Understand the place

A cave in the cliff face north of Karavostasis, used in antiquity and inscribed with the names of young men, approachable only by boat.

Nearby

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