As a result of the country’s rich geological structure and history, thousands of gorgeous subterranean and underwater caves were formed both on the mainland and on the islands. Systematic studies conducted by geologists and speleologists have brought to light more than 8,500 caves of all categories, many of which remain unexplored. For more information on Greek caves, click here
On Greek territory, caves were gradually formed during the Tertiary and Quaternary Periods, while their large number is due to the huge quantities of limestone covering about 65% of the country’s surface. Many of these caves have yielded vessels, bones, rock paintings, jewelry and traces of fire, as well as a host of other findings attesting to a very early human presence. Furthermore, many of these caves were used in antiquity as sites of worship, while in later times they housed churches and monasteries; many caverns situated on steep slopes were used by monks as hermitages. Moreover, numerous caves have played an important role in the Greek people’s struggles for independence (since they served as shelters, hideaways, hospitals, workshops, etc.).
Greece’s most important caves are the following:
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Natuur & ecotourisme 
