The Cave of Pythagoras in situated on the eastern hills of Mount Kerkis on the Greek island of Samos. There are actually two caves and the combined recesses in this beautiful mountain are both attributed to the famous mathematical genius and philosopher.
What has Pythagoras got to do with these caves? It was here where he hid from Polychaetes – the evil and warmongering tyrant of Samos. Mount Kerkis is the highest mountain on the island and the highest anywhere in the entire island chain of the Aegean Sea.
Once up in the hidden wilderness of the caves you can see the sea which joins onto the Votsalakia Beach (which is about two miles away) and the beautiful valley below. Access to the caves can be rather challenging. Both caves are close to one another and both were believed to have been used by Pythagoras. One of the caves was used for sleeping and general living in and the other was used by the philosopher for teaching.
One can see the cave which was used for living as it is flat and appropriate for day to day dwelling. There are three caverns within the first cave but only two are accessible. If you walk for a few metres into the cave you will come across a natural spring which would have been used by Pythagoras for drinking water.
Today you will also be able to visit two small chapels – the Chapel of Panagia Sarantaskaliotissa and the Chapel Dedicated to Saint John.
As we pointed out earlier in the article, access to the caves is difficult. There is a path which leads to the caves and is about 300 metres long; it is well sign-posted and has regular signage along the trail. However, as the caves get closer and you near towards the end of the path, the route becomes much steeper and a walk ascends into something more like a climb.
Once you are up and you have taken the due care and attention on the steep path leading into the caves. You should take a while to view the beautiful scenery that lies before your eyes. A vast forest valley and the beach in the background would have given the philosopher and some of his followers the perfect hideout from evil tyrants after his blood.
A gorgeous view after a long and somewhat demanding hike! Did not understand much about the caves’ usage, but have to admit it was touching to stand at the spot, where Pythagoras himself most likely had been standing thousands of years ago. Prepare for the hike with a good pair of sturdy shoes, a cap and plenty of water.