Discover the Enchanting Songs of Fairies at Neraidospilios Cave

North of the Astraki Bridge, within the Astrakiano (Astraki) Gorge, lies the captivating Neraidospilios Cave.

The cave houses one of the springs that feeds the aqueduct of the village Astraki, which has been partially supplying water to the city of Heraklion since the early 20^th century. As per legend, this cave, nestled within the gorge and surrounded by numerous springs, gurgling waters, and lush vegetation, was believed to be the enchanting dwelling place of fairies.

One night, a young lyre player, lured by their captivating song, ventured into the cave out of curiosity. To his astonishment, he beheld the fairies, bathed in ethereal light, adorned with cobwebbed veils and flowing hair, gracefully dancing and singing. Mesmerised by the enchanting melody filling the air, he found himself irresistibly drawn to join their dance, unconsciously strumming his lyre and becoming part of their mesmerising performance.

Photo Municipality of Archanes Asterousia

Photos by Tsafantakis Haris