Cave of the Lakes

The Cave of the Lakes (Greek: Σπήλαιο των Λιμνών, romanized: Spilaio ton Limnon), formerly called Troupisio, is located near the village Kastria in the municipality of Kalavryta, Achaea regional unit. It is 17 km (11 miles) from Kalavryta and 9 km (6 miles) from Kleitoria.[1]

Cave of the Lakes
Map showing the location of Cave of the Lakes
Map showing the location of Cave of the Lakes
LocationKastria, Kalavryta, Achaea, Greece
Coordinates38°2′N 22°7′E
Elevation827
Discovery1964
Entrances1
AccessPublic
Show cave length1980
LightingYes
VisitorsYes
FeaturesLakes, stalactites and stalagmites
Websitehttp://www.kastriacave.gr/

The cave is an old subterranean river consisting of three levels. During the winter when the snow melts it is transformed into a flowing river with waterfalls. During the summer, it dries up, leaving behind 13 lakes.

Legend

It is mentioned in the writings of the ancient traveller Pausanias.[2]

According to Greek legend, it was in this cave that Melampus cured the two of the three daughters of Proetus, king of Tiryns, Lysippe and Iphianassa. The third daughter, Iphinoe, had died on the way.[3]

Scientific

Humans started using the cave during the Neolithic Age and it was in continued use throughout the duration of the Bronze Age. It presents significant paleontological and archaeological interests. On the lower level of the cave, fossilized bones of humans and various other animals, including hippopotamus, have been identified.[4]

References
  1. "Visit Greece | Cave of the Lakes". www.visitgreece.gr.
  2. "Cave of the Lakes | Achaïa, Greece Achaïa". www.lonelyplanet.com.
  3. "Kastria, Cave of Lakes". Archived from the original on 2015-02-28. Retrieved 2015-08-06.
  4. "THE CAVE OF LAKES - KASTRIA ACHAEA - KALAVRITA GREECE". www.kastriacave.gr.
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