The Melissani Lake Cave in Kefalonia is a geological phenomenon of unique beauty that inspires awe in visitors. The boat ride on the lake is a one of a kind experience, illuminated by the open ceiling, with sunbeams casting exquisite colors on the crystal clear turquoise waters.
There are many impressive attractions shaped by nature in Greece. Among them caves that are world-famous for their beauty. Stalactites, stalagmites, mysterious chambers and underground lakes create landscapes that inspire awe in visitors. The Melissani Cave in Kefalonia is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular.
The Melissani Cavewas discovered in 1951 by speleologist Giannis Petrocheilos and is a geological phenomenon of unique beauty, a true wonder of nature, that often features on lists of the most beautiful places on earth. You may have seen it in photographs or on television, but what you will see inside will leave you speechless.
Boat ride in Melissani Cave
With its two chambers - one dark and covered with stalagmites and one lit by the vast natural opening in the roof- the Melissani Cave,located 2 km. northwest of Sami, in Karavomylos, offers visitors an unforgettable sight. The boat ride on the calm, crystal-clear waters of the lake is a unique experience worth having when you visit Kefalonia.
The caves natural entrance is vertical (dimensions 40×50 m.) and was created by the collapse of a section of the roof. Sunlight entering through the natural opening in the ceiling creates unique colorations on the caves waters. The lake lies 20 m. below the surface of the ground, is about 160 m. long and has a depth from 10 m. to 40 m. Stalactites 16,000 to 20,000 years old adorn the greater part of the cave. In 1963 it was determined that the lake cave is connected to the islands entire karst network and this was confirmed by a dye test using colored water channeled from the Katavothres in Argostoli.
The myth
At the center of the lake there is a small islet, on which finds were discovered that attest to the caves cult function. These finds include a clay figurine of the god Pan, a clay disc depicting nymphs dancing, a clay plaque with a procession of nymphs as well as a small tablet with a relief female figure. The myth says that Melissanthi committed suicide in the lake out of sorrow, because Pan did not reciprocate her love. According to another version, the shepherdess Melissanthi lost a sheep and as she tried to find it, she stumbled and fell into the lake.
