The Cyclops Cave (Makri)
16.5 km from the center
About
A carved cave overlooking the Thracian Sea. Where Odysseus blinded Polyphemus.
What it is
The Cyclops Cave sits on Makri beach, inside the rock that towers over Agios Georgios and Agia Paraskevi. According to local folk tradition, this is the cave of the Cyclops Polyphemus, whom Odysseus got drunk and blinded with a stake.
In reality it's an archaeological site with traces of use from the Neolithic period, around 4,500 BC, through to Byzantine times. According to local tradition it was a cult centre of the Greek deities of Thrace.
It has now been revealed to belong to the Neolithic settlement of Makri, one of the most important in the Balkans - a 400-metre tell mound with layers of mudbrick structures.
The site consists of three chambers with carved niches, steps, cisterns, a lookout point, clay structures, small statues and animal figurines. Steps and niches have also been carved around the rock.
What you'll see
- The cave, with its two main areas and three chambers
- Carved steps in the rock leading inside
- The view from inside out towards the Thracian Sea and Samothraki - the classic inside-out photo
- Cisterns and the lookout point
- The Neolithic settlement's tell mound right above
Practical info
- Address: Cyclops Cave, Makri 68100
- Distance: 16.5km from the centre, 20 minutes by car. Above Agios Georgios beach - leave your car in the taverna's parking lot and walk up a 5-minute path. Wear proper shoes, not flip-flops - there are rocks and steps.
- Entry: Free, open access. No opening hours, no attendant.
- Condition: Looks neglected - watch your step on the rocks.
Photos
Useful Information
- Duration
- 30-45 λεπτά
Weather in Alexandroupoli
LiveFrom April to June and from September to October you get warm days, calm sea, and fewer crowds. July and August are hot and busy along the seafront, while winters stay mild but rainy.
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