Pan's cave

Important Note: Crossing the Goura stream is not possible during the winter months when the stream has water or after heavy rainfall.

This route is the shortest and most scenic way to reach the Panos Cave. The path is marked with a blue square in a white frame and follows the route from the Strofi position to Strati, Kiafa Marista, Gouras stream, and finally the Panos Cave. To enter the cave, a flashlight is necessary, and those who wish to explore its interior are advised to wear a helmet. In the winter months, the entrance to the cave can become slippery due to mud, so caution is advised.

At the starting point, there is a kiosk displaying a map of the route. The beginning of the path takes you uphill through a pine forest, and at the "Strati" position, it coincides with a section of an ancient road characterized by megalithic stonework. From the "Strati" position, there is an excellent view of the ancient fortress of Phylis. The route continues through a dense pine forest, reaching its highest point at the Kiafa Marista location, and then descends through a forest of conifers and arias (Quercus ilex). As you descend towards the Goura stream, the terrain becomes rocky, requiring caution. Near the stream, the path extends along a cliff, and a safety wire has been installed for your safety. When the path intersects with the Goura stream, hikers need to walk a few meters on the stream bed, which is characterized by large stones, until reaching the uphill point just below the Panos Cave. It's important to note that depending on the conditions, the Goura stream may have water, especially during the winter months or after heavy rain. There is an uphill and steep section of the path where a wire rope has been installed, leading to the entrance of the cave.

The unknown and ancient cave of Pan in Parnitha is situated east of the Goura gorge, at an altitude of approximately 770 meters. It is considered one of the most well-hidden places in the entire Parnitha region, known as the Lychnospelia of Attica or the Cave of Pan.

Referred to by ancient writers as the "Nymphaion of the Phylasians," the cave has served as a place of worship for the God Pan and the Nymphs since prehistoric times. This is evident from the engraved inscriptions at the cave entrance and the depictions found on the vases discovered inside.

During the Late Roman period, the cave maintained its significance as a cult center until it was destroyed by Christian fanatics, eradicating any traces of its previous use. The name Lychnospelia was bestowed upon it due to the discovery of over two thousand lamps, primarily dating back to the 4th century AD.

The first excavation of the cave was carried out by archaeologist Schia in 1900, prompted by a fortuitous event and the shells brought to him by residents of Elefsina. The cave entrance, concealed by plane trees, was subsequently opened and explored.

Reaching the Pan's Cave requires caution and companionship, as it presents a challenging path. In the final stretch just before the cave, there is a vertical rock face of 6-7 meters with ancient steps carved into it, leading to the entrance. A wire rope is in place to assist climbers.

Despite its difficult accessibility, the cave has remained a popular destination for tourists and climbers throughout time.

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However, the last few meters leading to the cave pose a significant challenge on both sides. On one hand, there are the carved vertical steps with a permanent wire rope, while on the other hand, descending the steep gorge towards the Goura stream becomes difficult during periods of high water levels.

Pan's Cave is situated at the southwest foothills of Parnitha, on Tamilthi mountain, along the left slope of the Goura ravine, at an elevation of 770 meters. Once you reach the plateau of the cave and gaze upon its conical opening, you realize that the entire journey was worthwhile. Nevertheless, caution must be exercised, as the inside of the cave tends to be slippery during the winter months.

The stalactites within the cave have darkened due to the lamps and torches that were used for illumination. Additionally, the presence of small water pools known as gurs gives the cave a distinct characteristic rarely found elsewhere.