These Caves found at Diros in the Mani region of the Peloponnese peninsula are one of the most stunning natural sights in Greece and are also of great archeological significance.
The cave was known to locals long before, but it was only in 1949 that exploration began. By 1967, when the caves were first opened to visitors, only around 1600 meters of the system had been mapped. Today, nearly 15 kilometers of this underground realm have been explored, with many secrets doubtlessly still left to uncover.
In addition to the cave’s natural beauty, the site is also visited for its historical significance. Archeological digs have revealed the site’s use as a pre-historic burial ground, now considered one of the largest Neolithic burial sites in Europe. The famous Embracing Skeletons of Alepotrypa, two human skeletons found in an embraced position, were uncovered in the cave system – their remains are estimated to be around 6,000 years old. A Mycenaen ossuary, dated to the 2nd millennium BC, has also been found nearby – archaeologists speculate that there might be a link between this site and the mythical Cape Tainaron, considered one of the entrances to Hades.
Visitors to the cave are welcome to explore around 1,500 meters of the underground system, as well as to learn more about the archeological finds in the caves in the museum next to the cave’s entrance.
