Cave of the Lakes

Cave of the Lakes
Map showing the location of Cave of the Lakes
Location Kastria, Achaea, Greece
Coordinates 38°2′N 22°7′E / 38.033°N 22.117°E / 38.033; 22.117Coordinates: 38°2′N 22°7′E / 38.033°N 22.117°E / 38.033; 22.117
Elevation 827
Discovery 1964
Entrances 1
Access Public
Show cave length 1980
Lighting Yes
Visitors Yes
Features Lakes, stalactites and stalagmites
Website http://www.kastriacave.gr/

The Cave of the Lakes is located near the village Kastria in the Achaea regional unit. It is 17 km (11 miles) from Kalavryta and 9 km (6 miles) from Kleitoria.[1]

It was formally known as Troupisio.

The cave is an old subterranean river consisting of three levels. During the winter when the snow melts it is transformed in to a flowing rive 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. 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 were found fossilized human bones and various animals including hippopotamus.[4]

References

  1. ↑ http://www.visitgreece.gr/en/nature/caves/cave_of_the_lakes
  2. ↑ https://www.lonelyplanet.com/greece/around-kalavryta/sights/natural-landmarks/cave-lakes
  3. ↑ "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 2015-02-28. Retrieved 2015-08-06.
  4. ↑ http://www.kastriacave.gr/


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