Σπήλαιο Αρχίλοχου

Archilochos Cave

Useful Information

Location:	Northwestern coast, Paros Island, Cyclades, South Aegean. (37.0985315, 25.1357772)
Open:	no restrictions. [2025]
Fee:	free. [2025]
Classification:	Karst Cave
Light:	n/a
Dimension:
Guided tours:	self guided
Photography:	allowed
Accessibility:	no
Bibliography:
Address:	Archilochos Cave, Tel: +30-.
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History

Description

Σπήλαιο Αρχίλοχου (Spílaio Archílochou, Archilochos Cave) was named after the renowned 7th-century BC Greek poet Archilochos. It is also known as Cave of Archilochos and Cave of Archilochus (the Romanized version of the name). According to legend, Archilochus sought refuge in this cave to find inspiration for his poetry. Archilochus is a famous ancient Greek poet, who was born on the island. Another version of the legend even states that he was born in the cave. The view is awe-inspiring, especially during rough seas when waves crash into the cave. As it is oriented westwards, the sunset illuminates the cave in a rainbow of colors.

There are theories that this site was used as a sanctuary and place of worship during Antiquity. This is possible but unlikely, there is definitely no archaeological evidence. Webpages stating that the cave was the birthplace of Archilochus are AI nonsense though. There is a place named Archilocheion which is located at Treis Ekklisies east of Paros, which is thought to be his birthplace.

Archilochos was a prominent figure in the 7th century BC. He was known for his satirical and personal poetry, his main topics were love, war, and social criticism.

There are other local legends about the cave which are not connected to the poet. For example, that the cave was once inhabited by a fierce dragon who guarded a hidden treasure. Another legend tells the cave contains a secret portal leading to a mystical realm where time stands still.

The cave is easy to reach. From the Paros Ferry Terminal take the Parikia water taxi across the bay. Then follow the gravel road straight uphill, after 400 m at the top keep left, along the cliff about 150 m to the cave. There is a trail going down to the sea and then along the foot of the cliff. The cave portal is in the middle of the cliff, there is a steep slope which leads up. No climbing necessary, but avoid rainy weather, because the slope becomes slippery. It’s about 550 m/10 minutes hike, one way. Of course its also possible to drive by car to the water taxi jetty, but parking space is limited, especially on weekends when the locals frequent the beaches.