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Astraki Cave
Prefecture: Heraclion
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Astraki Cave
Astraki or Neraidospilios cave is situated about 23 km from Heraklion, and 2 km far from the village of Astraki. It is a natural cave associated with many legends about fairies and witches. Nowadays, the cave has been constructed and its entrance is closed with a gate, so you cannot visit it.
Deep in the cave there is a water spring. The landscape around the cave is wonderful, with a small artificial lake, wild vegetation and a relaxing environment.
In the Astrakiano gorge, follow the path by the river of Karteros until you reach the bridge of Aitania. The path often crosses the closed pipe of the aqueduct. A wooden construction covers the closed pipe of the aqueduct, in order to protect it. Small lakes, watermills, small waterfalls and the sounds of nature (frogs, birds, wind blowing through the trees) will accompany your route.
Places near Astraki Cave
You can reach the village of Astrakoi or Astraki by bus from Heraklion (18.5 km) and from the village of Myrtia. In the village you will find mini markets and coffee shops. On the eastern extremity of the settlement, and specifically on the central plateau, starts the road that leads to the abandoned settlement of Kato Astrakoi, 2 km away.
The village of Kato Astrakoi was abandoned in the beginning of the year 1930. From there, follow the downhill path that leads to the gorge (10 min walking). On the side of the path you will see the ruins of a Basilica, dedicated to Saint George (Aghios Georgios).
It is a Byzantine Basilica with three sections. 100 meters further from the Basilica stands the church of Mary (Panaghia), featuring a unique symbol of the Byzantine two-headed eagle over its windows.
A bit further from the church of Aghios Georgios you will find a north intersection leading to an olive grove, where you will find a path with stone stairs that leads into the Astrakiano gorge, in the position of "Neraidospilo" cave or Astraki cave. Look for the signs. The path crosses the entire gorge of Karteros, where you will see beautiful churches, watermills and a rest house of the Byzantine period.
The village of Kato Astrakoi was abandoned in the beginning of the year 1930. From there, follow the downhill path that leads to the gorge (10 min walking). On the side of the path you will see the ruins of a Basilica, dedicated to Saint George (Aghios Georgios).
It is a Byzantine Basilica with three sections. 100 meters further from the Basilica stands the church of Mary (Panaghia), featuring a unique symbol of the Byzantine two-headed eagle over its windows.
A bit further from the church of Aghios Georgios you will find a north intersection leading to an olive grove, where you will find a path with stone stairs that leads into the Astrakiano gorge, in the position of "Neraidospilo" cave or Astraki cave. Look for the signs. The path crosses the entire gorge of Karteros, where you will see beautiful churches, watermills and a rest house of the Byzantine period.
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