The Trapeza Cave, more widely known as Kronio, is located in the village of Tzermiadon in the Lassithi Plateau, at an altitude of 860 meters, approximately 800 meters west of the settlement. The cave is an important archaeological and cultural monument of Crete, combining natural beauty with a rich history.
History and Archaeological Significance
The cave was systematically excavated in 1935 by the British archaeologist John Pendlebury, who uncovered finds dating from the Neolithic to the Byzantine period. Among the items discovered in the cave were pottery shards and bones, with the findings now displayed in museums in England. Local tradition links the cave to the worship of the mythical god Cronus, adding a mythological dimension and enhancing its cultural value.
Characteristics and Access
The cave consists of two main chambers with alcoves. The entrance is narrow and leads to a small room with stalactites and stalagmites, while there are also small alcoves with columns. Access to the cave is via an uphill cobbled path with steps, surrounded by oaks, which leads to the entrance after approximately a 5-minute climb. From the entrance of the cave, visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the Plateau.