Arkoudiotissa Cave (Arkoudospilios)

Behold, the Arkoudiotissa Cave, where you'll encounter a bear!

But fear not, for it's merely a stalagmite fashioned in the likeness of this friendly creature!

Situated near the Gouverneto Monastery in Akrotiri, Chania, Arkoudiotissa Cave is accessible on foot from the monastery.

According to Wikipedia, this cave is thought to have been utilised for religious purposes since ancient times, with evidence of worship dedicated to Artemis and Apollo. However, during the Christian era, it was consecrated to Panagia Arkoudiotissa (Bear Virgin Mary). Ascetics also inhabited the caves in the vicinity.

Further along the path, after descending 140 metres, lies the primary church of a monastery, now abandoned. Thought to date back to the 5^th or 6^th century, it was established by St John the Hermit.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons