Gorge of the Dead

The Gorge of the Dead, also known as Kato Zakros Gorge, is a remarkable natural site where the ancient Minoans used to bury their dead.

The journey through the gorge begins southeast of the village of Ano Zakros, winding its way through a stunning landscape before ending at the coast, right next to the Minoan palace in Kato Zakros Bay. It's a path accessible year-round, stretching for about 2.5 kilometers, with an elevation difference of approximately 100 meters between the entrance and the exit.
There are two entrances to the gorge. The first is located right next to Zakros, while the second is around halfway through, offering a shorter version of the hike for those pressed for time. The riverbed of the gorge collects water from two main streams—Adravastra and Pano Zakros—which merge at a place called Lenika.
The area is well-marked, and a section that was once known for being particularly challenging (and often mentioned in older travel guides) has now been bypassed, making the hike easier.

Photo 1: Fassoulas,G. / Natural History Museum of Crete – University of Crete

Photo 2: Hilger,H.H. / Natural History Museum of Crete – University of Crete

Photo 3: Baxevani,P. / Natural History Museum of Crete – University of Crete

Photo 4: visitsitia.gr