Σπήλαιο Δαμιανού

Damianos Cave

Useful Information

Location:	(37.7056824, 20.7723045)
Open:	no restrictions. [2024]
Fee:	free. [2024]
Classification:	Karst Cave
Light:	bring torch
Dimension:
Guided tours:	self guided
Photography:	allowed
Accessibility:	no
Bibliography:
Address:	Cave Damianos Restaurant, Agalas, P.C. 29092, Zakynthos, Tel: +30-698-010-2450. E-mail:
As far as we know this information was accurate when it was published (see years in brackets), but may have changed since then. Please check rates and details directly with the companies in question if you need more recent info.

History

Description

Σπήλαιο Δαμιανού (Spilaio Damianou, Damianos Cave) is located close to the small village Agalas. The road ends on a hill at the homonymous restaurant. It has a great view on the surrounding hills and the sea. The restaurant is the starting point of a short trail which leads to the cave, which is located below.

Andronios was a 300 m tall dragon who terrorized the village of Agalas. The good ruler of the village and its protector, Damianos, forced the evil dragon Andronios to fight. He managed to defeat him and as punishment, the dragon had to build twelve wells, one for each month of the year, for the benefit of the villagers. Damianos watched from his cave as Andronios carried out his punishment.
11 wells are visible on the surface, while the 12th is buried underground. They are privately owned and are located just outside the village of Agalas, between vineyards and olive trees. The names of the owners are inscribed on each well. They are still used today to supply water.
There is a rock in the cave that resembles a horse's head. When the dragon Andronios reappeared, Damianos killed him. Hs horse was also killed in the fight and was buried in the cave.

The cave has an exceptional form, the portal has two levels, one above the other. As a result, it is easy to visit the lower passage, but the upper passage is in the middle of the cliff face about 5 m above the ground. It's possible to climb up over the rocks on the left side if you are surefooted enough. The cave offers a view, but only into the valley which is uninhabited, the village is on the other side of the hill. On the right side is possible to see the sea.