Ideon Cave
Ideon Cave
Nature & Outdoors
ABOUT
The ‘Ideon Andron’ or Ideon Cave is situated on the eastern slopes of Mt Ida, specifically on the Nida Plateau, at an elevation of 1,498 metres and is approximately 20 kilometres away from Anogia.
It is one of the most significant caves of worship in Minoan Crete, as it has mythological connections with the god Zeus. The Italian archaeologist F Alber was the first to investigate it, and small-scale excavations were conducted in 1917 by S Xanthoudidis and in 1956 by S Marinatos. Systematic archaeological research, carried out by the Archaeological Society and Ioannis and Efi Sakellarakis from 1982 to 1985, provided evidence of continuous human presence in the Ideon Cave from the 4th millennium BC to the 5th century AD.
The archaeological discoveries confirm sporadic habitation during the final Neolithic period (3300-3000 BC), but there is no evidence of systematic human presence during most of the 3rd millennium BC. It's only during the latter half of the 2nd millennium BC that there is a first indication of the cave's use for religious purposes. The sacred site experienced its highest level of visitation during the Geometric and Archaic periods (10th-6th century BC).
The significance of the cave is well-documented through the presence of numerous and precious offerings, including vases of various sizes, intricate utensils, figurines, exceptional ivory seals, jewellery, miniature gold vessels, and necklaces made from semiprecious stones. Additionally, noteworthy are the bronze votive shields dating back to the 8th -7th century BC, featuring engraved and forged depictions, which are considered among the finest works of art from the ancient world.
In the Classical era (5th century BC), written sources make mention of the religious practices carried out within the cave and ascribe to it a mysterious and chthonic nature. To facilitate these rituals, an area with paving was created inside the cave for the performance of sacrifices. Inscriptions also reveal the presence of a powerful priesthood, which required annual contributions from various Cretan cities. Throughout the Hellenistic and Roman periods (4th century BC – 4th century AD), the cave retained its paramount status as a significant religious centre, continuing its importance until the time of Julian the Transgressor in the mid-4th century AD.
The cave has been brought into focus as part of the Enterprise Programme of Crete and the Aegean Islands for 2007-2013, which was executed by the Ephorate of Palaeoanthropology - Spelaeology of Southern Greece. As a result, it is now accessible to the public.
Source: Ministry of Culture and Sports
see also
Tylisos (The houses of Tylisos)
The houses of Tylisos were built in the Late Minoan I period (16th-15th century B.C.). Extensions were made to House A in the Late Minoan II period (15th-14th centuries B.C.) and to the House C during the Late Minoan III period (14th century B.C.).
The site was destroyed by fire in the 14th century B.C. and reinhabited in the Historic times, as attested by ruins of later houses over the Minoan ones. Tylisos was excavated by Joseph Hatzidakis in 1902-1913. In 1954, during restorations, parts of a paved yard were revealed in the west and a small “stoa” with five columns north of the Square of the Altar. The Archaeological Authority (with Nikolaos Platonas) started restoration and consolidation works on the site in 1954, which were continued until 1962. Consolidation works in all three houses were repeated during the years 1990-1994.
More Information: here
Source: Region of Crete
Heraklion Museum of Visual Arts
The Museum of Visual Arts of Heraklion was established in May 2000 as a non-profit organisation by Kostis and Irene Schizakis.
The collection comprises three distinct sections in its entirety.
The first and most significant section comprises remarkable works by artists from the period spanning 1850 until the present day.
The second section contains what's commonly referred to as ‘light material,’ consisting mainly of works offered as souvenirs by the artists.
The third section documents amateur creations, preserving them for future researchers.
Contact Details:
3 Nymfon Street, Poros
Heraklion, Crete
Tel: +30 697 697 4000
met.heraklion@gmail.com
https://metheraklion.gr/
Visiting hours:
Monday-Friday 18:00-20:00
The Venetian Shipyards at Heraklion
The Venetians built a series of small shipyards (dockyards) (known in Greek as ‘tarsanades’ or more commonly the ‘Neoria’) in the south and eastern section of the port land zone, for the protection and accommodation of various activities related to the operation of the Venetian port.
Their size is impressive, and they were used both to repair and build galleon ships.
Source Region of Crete
Tower of Xopateras
Within the Holy Monastery of Odigitria, nestled in Asterousia, lies the Xopateras Tower. This structure is associated with Ioannis Markakis, a revered hero who was ordained within the monastery.
During the Greek Revolution of 1821, Ioannis Markakis and fellow fighters sought refuge within the monastery to evade the janissaries. Unfortunately, amidst the Turkish cleansing operations in Asterousia and the siege of the tower, Xopateras met a tragic end.
Cretans have rightfully honoured his life and ultimate sacrifice.
Info: Wikipedia
The Fabrica of Hercules Kokkinidis in Keramoutsi
According to tradition, the olive press was once owned by the family of the legendary hero of the Cretan Revolutions and leader of Malevizi and Temenos, Hercules Kokkinidis.
The fabrica has now been acquired by the Municipality of Malevizi to operate as a visitable monument and folklore museum.
According to the Municipality, the Kokkinidi fabrica is a prime example of an old pre-industrial era factory in Crete, dedicated to olive grinding and olive oil production. Inside the building, much of the equipment has been maintained for traditional olive oil production.
Photos: Cultural Association of Keramoutsi
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