The Corycian Cave, a large limestone cavern high on the southern slopes of Mount Parnassus north of Delphi, was a sacred place from the Neolithic era onward. Linked with the Corycian nymphs, especially Corycia, it became one of the Delphi region’s best-known rural sanctuaries, associated chiefly with Pan and also with the nymphs, Zeus, and perhaps Dionysus. Its vast chambers, stalactites, darkness, and echoes gave it an awe-inspiring reputation. Excavation uncovered abundant votive offerings, especially astragals from sheep and goats, indicating that many worshippers were ordinary local people. The cave also served repeatedly as a refuge in times of danger.

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain