Continuing yourexploration of the Plateau, head for the village of Psychro. From this village you can reach Dikteon Andro or Psychros Cave. Start climbing from the west side of the village, to an altitude of 1,025 metres. After crossing an asphalt road, you will reach a small flat area with souvenir shops. From there you must continue on foot or by donkey, for about twenty minutes, to reach the Cave where, according to mythology, Rea, wife of Cronus, gave birth to the divine infant Zeus.
She then handed him over to the nymphs and the Kourites bad spirit s to bring up and protect from the wrath of his father, who would eat him alive in orderto protect his power...
Archaeological excavations have shown that this was a place of worship for the fun Greeks, as an altar and various other ritual objects were found inside the cave, such as offerings, clay vessels, libation tables, figurines, double axes, weapons, knives, etc. Besides its historical importance, the cave also attracts nature- persons , as its intenor is covered in stalagmites and stalactites, creating a rich natural decor.
Your attention will definitely be attracted by the impressive stalactite known as Zeus' mantle or chandelier, which truly hangs over visitors' heads like a chandelier, and creates a sense of religious awe combined with the rest of the environment. The cave is open to the public every day; from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Return to Psychro village, where the cultural events have been gaining ground each year, because they are well organised and include a variety of events, which range from literary evenings to sports activities and art exhibitions. If you are in the village in August, do not miss the opportunity to attend these events.
As you leave the Plateau on the western road towards Heraklion, at the last mountain pass before the Aposelemis valley, you might be lucky enough to see a few rare vultures circling the ravine opposite you, looking for a - not exist anymore - animal to feed on.