Around Pythagorion are the unique stalactite cave Tsakalotripa, the ancient mines of Ajiades, the cave Spilliani, and the gigantic mine Vrisullia. The famous caves of Nerotruvia near Mili have 3 floors, a labyrinth of tunnels, and big rooms with amazing stalagmites and stalactites. There are also stalactite caves around the villages Ireon, Pagondas, Pyrgos, and Spartharei. The mines of Ajiades are in the hills of Mitilini and Chora. In the centuries of Hera and Polykrates they mined stones for decorative ornamentation, sulphur, nitrates, and other valuable materials. The monastery Spilliani in Pythagorion offers a wonderful romantic cave with a small chapel inside. | Samos has about 70 discovered caves. You will find big stalactite caves, public caves with small chapels, and about 100 ancient mines of geological interest. | Speleological trained members of the Efpalinos Club of Samos are exploring caves and mines, with the support of the Prefecture Samos, the Municipalities of Samos, and the Hellenic Federation of Speleology. These efforts have received the permission of the Paleoanthropological Division of the Ministry of Culture of North Greece. The main objective of the Efpalinos Club of Samos is to preserve these unique historical and natural monuments for the future.  |
Caves and Mines 
