Cave of Antiparos
Σπήλαιο Αντιπάρου
One of Europe's oldest show caves, with more than 400 steps descending into a huge stalactite hall, its walls covered in inscriptions left over the centuries.
The Cave of Antiparos lies on the slopes of Agios Ilias mountain in the middle of the island. It is about 100 m deep and features huge stalactites and stalagmites, one of which is believed to be about 45 million years old. The cave has been visited since ancient times, and its walls bear inscriptions from a 17th-century French ambassador's Christmas Mass and from celebrities such as Byron. Visitors descend 411 steps to the bottom, a round trip of about 45 minutes. The cave is damp and slippery, so wear non-slip shoes; those with knee problems should take care. Admission is about 6 euros, and the cave is closed in winter. It is about 20 minutes by bus or car from Antiparos town.
Opening hours
About 10:00 am–4:00 pm (Apr–Oct; check official sources)
Nearby sights
- Antiparos Town & Kastro
- Despotiko (Sanctuary of Apollo)
- Aliki
- Petaloudes (Valley of the Butterflies)
- Farangas Beach
- Frankish Castle of Parikia
- Panagia Ekatontapiliani
- Parikia Old Town