The cave of Poseidon is also a natural and a historical sight in Karpathos island, situated near Pigadia. The cave is also known as ‘Poseidon’s temple, because in the ancient eras it was dedicated to the Greek god of the sea.
Where to find Poseidon’s cave in Karpathos island
Poseidon’s cave (Poseidon’s temple) is located in the surrounding hills of Pigadia, in the west outskirts of the town. It is situated a little further from the main road, but it’s not too difficult to find. Usually there are no such signs, but take a look to the coordinates below, where a small hiking trail lead up to the hill. From the road you have to walk just a few meters up through on a rocky trail, which looks similar to stairs. If you would like to walk here from Pigadia, the distance is about 1,8 kilometers from the Archeological Museum of Karpathos (from the Town Hall).
History of Poseidon’s cave
When archaeologists searched the interior of the cave several decades ago, they find ancient artifacts and religious objects inside. There are proves that the cave of Pigadia is one of the oldest historical evidence about the ancient life of Karpathos. The cave was used as a temple of Poseidon (and maybe also temple of Aphrodite), but in the last centuries the main purpose of the sanctuary was forgotten. The cave of Karpathos became a shelter for sheperds, who moved in here in case of bad weather.
Some of the archeological objects, which were discovered in the cave can be visited in the Archeological Museum of Karpathos (Αρχαιολογικό Μουσείο Καρπάθου). This museum in Pigadia is quite small, but definitely one of the most important museums in Karpathos island.
As evidenced by geographical clues, millions of years ago the cave was below the surface of the sea. In the limestone walls of Poseidon’s cave there can be seen hundreds of fossilized shells! From the entrance of Poseidon’s temple you can also see the nearby houses and hotels of Pigadia. A visit in the famous cave of Karpathos island takes just a few minutes, because its size is very small.
Poseidon’s cave (Poseidon’s temple) additional info
- Coordinates: 35.501144, 27.198116 (near Pigadia)
- Entry fee: free entrance
- Outdoor archeological site