The Cave of Agios Ioannis (St. John) of Iraklia is one of the largest in the Cyclades, featuring a rich and impressive maze of stalactites and stalagmites as well as a rare kind of stalagmitic substance which is called ''cave-milk". The cave is 30 minutes on foot from Vourkaria Bay.
The entrance to the cave is very small and you need to be careful not to hit your head when you enter. Opposite the entrance of the cave there is another cave which is said to have been the cave of Giant Polyphemus.
On August 28, day of St. John the Baptist, the big chamber of the cave is wonderfully lit by the candles of worshippers. Legend has it that many years ago there was a strong storm and a shepherd found shelter in the cave. When he went back to his village, the figure of St. John was imprinted on the back of his shirt. Therefore, the cave took its name from the saint.
You can access the church on foot only, following a footpath. In the summer there is also a minibus that will bring you quite close to the church but then you will need to continue on foot.
Source: Website of the Municipality Naxos and Small Cyclades
