Mergeles Cave (Elenes)

The Amari Valley is home to many caves of both geological and historical significance. One of them is Mergeles Cave, located northeast of the village of Elenes, just a short distance from the village’s traditional springs.

Its entrance opens onto a small plateau, is narrow and low, and faces southwest, offering a view of Mount Kentros. Some sections of the cave are so tight that access is impossible. Inside, only a minimal amount of stalagmite formations remain, most of which have unfortunately been damaged, with only a small, damp section at the very end still active.

Beyond its natural features, Mergeles Cave is also an important Minoan settlement site. Excavations have uncovered stone axes and pottery dating back to the Final Neolithic period (circa 3300–3000 BC). Archaeological evidence suggests that the cave was in use throughout the Minoan era and remained active even during the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

📍 Source: Discoveramari