The Caves of Diros include two main caves: the Vlychada and the Alepotrypa. Vlychada is known for its underwater routes, which cover most of it, and for its impressive morphologies, while Alepotrypa has significant archaeological value, as excavations have revealed traces of human presence from the Neolithic Age.

According to archaeological findings, the Alepotrypa may have been used by Neolithic people as a place of worship or as an entrance to the World of the Dead.

The first systematic exploration of Vlychada was carried out in 1949 by Yannis and Anna Petrochilou, founders of the Hellenic Speleological Society.

By 1960, about 1,600 meters of the cave had been mapped, and exploration continues to this day, with a total known length of more than 15 kilometers.

The first underwater exploration was carried out in 1970, and in 1971. The water covering most of the tourist route is brackish.

The internal temperature of the cave ranges from 16 to 19 degrees Celsius (depending on the season), so those who feel they will be cold during their stay there are advised to bring appropriate clothing.

It should be noted that the cave also has amazing acoustics. It is no coincidence that in 1971, the French composer Pierre Arnaud was invited to make recordings inside the cave, which were then released on a vinyl album by our National Tourism Organization (entitled "Music From The Caves Of Diros", as recordings were also made in Alepotrypa).

As a result, Vlychada is ranked among the 3 most beautiful caves of its category in the world, along with the Jeita Grotto in Beirut (Lebanon) and Le Gouffre de Padirac in Gramat, France. Among the most wondrous formations you'll see while on board are the "Neptune's Mantle" in the first room, the "Great Thames", the "Stone Lily", the "Pink Flats", the "Fairy Bridal Cloisters", the "Sea of Shipwrecks" and the "Chocolate Sala".

Information for your visit

The Vlychada Cave of Diros is located in the Bay of Diros, near the head village of Pyrgos Diros, about 1.5 km away from the sea.

The distance from Areopolis, the largest nearby village, is about 3.1 km, which makes the cave easily accessible in just 15 minutes by car. The Caves of Diros have been open to the public since 1967, with the tourist route having a total length of 1,500 metres, of which 1,200 are crossed exclusively by boat, due to the underground lake that covers most of the cave.

The tour takes about 25-30 minutes and offers a unique experience for visitors as they pass through unreal stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Also, it is important to follow the instructions of the boaters and not to remove rocks from the cave, as it is considered a natural monument and removing rocks is punishable by law.

Vlychada Cave is open all year round, with tourist traffic peaking during the summer season. Tickets can be purchased either on arrival from the ticket office or via the Dirou Caves website, ensuring the best possible service.

A visit to Diros Caves is an unforgettable experience that combines historical knowledge with the unsurpassed natural beauty of the area. It is a journey through time and nature, where visitors can admire the magic created drop by drop.

Sources:

- Diros Caves Official Website

- Official website of the Hellenic Speleological Society Official website of the Hellenic Speleological Society

- Greek Archaeological and Historical Resources for Mani

- Archaeological and Archaeological-Magnesian archaeological and archaeological monuments in the area.

-www.diros-caves.gr