Topolia Gorge: Talos, Fairies, and Breath-taking Marvels
Nature & Outdoors
things must take with you
DURATION 1,5 hour
GRADE intermediate
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Topolia (Topoliano) Gorge stretches for 1,500 metres, starting from Topolia and extending to Koutsomatados in Kissamos. It is a rugged and untamed gorge, with towering rocks rising up to 300 metres. Within its confines, a diverse array of flora thrives, including plane trees, wild olive trees, arbutuses, and various other plants. The gorge also provides a habitat for hares, beech martens and a variety of bird species such as European greenfinches. Remarkably, numerous caves adorn its walls, adding an air of mystery to the landscape. Legend has it that Talos the Giant once traversed the Topolia gorge to find respite, and it is said that he was serenaded by fairies and elves rumoured to inhabit the area. On the right side of the gorge lies a road leading to Paleochora, which carves its path through a tunnel.
The majestic Agia Sophia (Sofia) cave, situated at a height of 80 metres on the right side of the road, is equally awe-inspiring. It acquired its name from the church constructed near its entrance on the left side. As per the tradition, the icon was brought from Constantinople and was wedged into a crevice within the cave.
Inside the cave, you can find awe-inspiring stalagmites alongside ancient relics like shells dating back to the Neolithic to Roman times. In a historical event, the leaders of the Psaromilingi revolution sought refuge here in 1847. Faced with imminent capture, the bishop handed over their heads to the Venetians in exchange for his own life.
Photo: wikipedia.
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