Caves Matala

Caves Matala are carved into the limestone cliffs beside Matala beach, on Crete’s southern coast. The caves have served different purposes over time: they were used in prehistoric times, became Roman tombs, and later housed people during the 1960s hippie era. You can climb among the rock-cut chambers and look out over the bay from higher levels. The surfaces are uneven and can be slippery, so sturdy shoes and care on the climbs are essential. The beach and village are close by.

Caves carved into the cliffs

The caves are cut into the soft limestone cliffs at Matala, beside the beach. Their chambers and openings form a distinctive pattern across the rock face. Archaeological accounts connect the caves with prehistoric use, and the Romans later used them as tombs. Some descriptions also note graves from the Christian period.

The caves changed purpose over many centuries. In the 1960s and 1970s, people associated with the hippie movement made homes in them. That later chapter is part of Matala’s cultural history, alongside the caves’ earlier use.

Climbing among the chambers

You can explore the caves and climb to higher levels for views over Matala Bay, the sea and the village. Reaching some of the upper chambers means climbing across rock rather than following a set of stairs or paved paths. The stone can be polished and slippery, and parts of the terrain are steep and uneven.

Wear sturdy shoes with good grip and take care as you move between levels. The climb may not suit anyone uncomfortable with heights or uneven ground. Allow around 30 to 60 minutes to look around, then continue to the nearby beach or village if you want to spend more time in Matala.