- Tourist Information
- Map
- Why is Papanikolis Cave famous?
- Accessible only by boat
- World War II
- Interior
- Formation
- What legends does Papanikolis Cave have?
- Odysseus and Calypso
- Nymphs and Sea Spirits
- Hidden Treasures
- Papanikolis Submarine Legend
Tourist Information
| Type | Cave, Natural |
| When to visit | During the summer, anytime |
| Tickets | Free entry |
| Getting there | Papanikolis Cave is located on Meganisi Island. By boat from Vasiliki (15-20 E) or Nidri (20-25E) You can reach this cave by going on a trip to the nearby islands (Kefalonia, Ithaca, Scorpios) and these excursions cost 20-35e per person. |
| Location |
Map
Why is Papanikolis Cave famous?
Accessible only by boat
Papanikolis Cave is only accessible by boat, either through an organized tour from Nidri or by hiring your own motorboat. Most tours last all day and include a visit to the village of Spartochori on Meganisi, as well as beach barbecues and the chance to snorkel in the crystal clear seas. If you’re sailing yourself, take a trip north to Alabaster Cave near Lefkada to see incredible stalactites.
World War II
During the Second World War, it’s believed the cavern was used as a hiding spot for Greek submarines seeking cover after attacks on Italian ships. Legend also has it that the cave was used by sailors to escape from fierce pirates in the Aegean Sea. It’s named after the Greek submarine “Papanikolis,” which played a significant role in World War II.
Interior
Papanikolis Cave has a huge chamber about 120 meters long and 60 meters wide.
Inside the cave, visitors can experience the stunning play of light and shadow as sunlight filters through the openings, creating a captivating interplay of colors on the water and the cave walls. The interior is often adorned with impressive stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over time.
Formation
Papanikolis Grotto, also known as Papanikolis Cave, is a natural sea cave located on the east coast of Lefkada, a Greek island in the Ionian Sea. The cave is situated near the village of Vliho and is accessible by boat.
The cave has been formed over millions of years through geological processes, primarily the erosive action of water on the limestone rock that makes up the island’s coastline.
What legends does Papanikolis Cave have?
Papanikolis Cave is not only known for its natural beauty but also for the legends and stories associated with it.
Odysseus and Calypso
Given the location of Lefkada and its proximity to the Ionian Sea, some legends draw parallels between Papanikolis Cave and the story of Odysseus from Homer’s “The Odyssey.” In the epic, Odysseus is trapped by the nymph Calypso on her island, and he longs to return home to Ithaca. The cave’s secluded nature and the connection to the sea might evoke the themes of isolation and longing present in the myth.
Nymphs and Sea Spirits
Like many sea caves and grottos in Greek mythology, Papanikolis Cave is sometimes associated with nymphs and sea spirits. These mythical beings were believed to inhabit the caves and waterways, and they were often depicted as beautiful and ethereal figures. Legends would tell of sailors encountering these nymphs while entering the cave, and tales of love and enchantment might unfold.
Hidden Treasures
Another common theme in cave legends is the presence of hidden treasures. It’s not uncommon for tales to circulate about lost riches, pirates’ hoards, or ancient artifacts concealed within the depths of the cave.
Papanikolis Submarine Legend
One of the most common legends associated with Papanikolis Grotto is related to the Greek submarine “Papanikolis,” which was named after the Greek folk hero Georgios Papanikolaou. According to the legend, during World War II, the submarine found refuge and hid within the cave to evade enemy detection. The cave’s natural formations and the submarine’s maneuvering skills allowed it to remain concealed and safe during critical times. This legend celebrates the bravery and resourcefulness of the Greek Navy and their successful missions during the war.
