Choros Kaveiriou, Lemnos, Greece

The ancient temple of Kavirio on Lemnos is situated 3 kilometers from the archaeological site of Ifestia, just opposite to Tigani Bay. It is an ancient sanctuary dedicated to the two gods Kaviri, mythical gods of northern Aegean with mystic ceremonies.

The sanctuary of Kavirio, which was assumed to have been built around the 6th or 7th century BC, is older than the one in Samothraki, where this particular god was also worshiped. There is also a belief that Kaviri were sons of god Hephaestus. They were thought to be talented technicians and they were worshiped as gods of the sea, the vineyards, and fertility. Kaviria Mysteries were celebrated every year and they were associated with the revival of nature.

The site of Kavirio was brought to light in 1937. The excavations can be seen separated by a trench. There was a telestirio or else initiation hall, a palace and an arcade on one side. On the other side, there is a larger telestirio with twelve Doric columns. The sanctuary contained many inscriptions that gave information about its construction and the history of the island.

References:

greeka.com

Address

Lemnos, Greece

See all sites in Lemnos

Details

Founded: 7th century BCE
Category: Prehistoric and archaeological sites in Greece

More Information

www.greeka.com

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

Interesting Sites Nearby

Hephaestia (2,6 km)

Myrina Castle (26,9 km)
Temple of Artemis (25,6 km)
East Mudros Military Cemetery (12,9 km)
Panagia Kakaviotissa (23,7 km)
Poliochne (14 km)

User Reviews

Zo Tsi (2 years ago)
A must when in Lemnos island. Better go early. It close at 15:30.

V Bar (2 years ago)
Lovely archeological site in the main Lemnos route so no dirt off-roads involved to reach this beauty. Recently renovated entry area which is equipped with a valuable baby changing table! Absolutely what we needed! Thank you! Unfortunately not normally accessible by sunset which would be a gorgeous time to visit. Bring water.

ioannis giavasis (3 years ago)
Nice archaelogical site, althought the are only few ruins left to see. The sea views and especially the cave of Filoktitis make it a must-visit place.

Terzidis Dimitrios (3 years ago)
You should also visit the cave of Philoktitis. Request the tablet that will help you know about every spot in this monument. If you want to enter Philoktitis cave you must enter the water.

Stacy Garrett (3 years ago)
We took a guided tour organized by Seaborn Cruises. The history is very rich and a must visit if you are at all interested in learning about pre Christian religious practices.

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Photo from Flickr, copyright murphygb

Historic Site of the week

Clickimin Broch

The Broch of Clickimin is a large and well preserved, though somewhat restored broch near Lerwick. Originally built on an island in Clickimin Loch (now increased in size by silting and drainage), it was approached by a stone causeway. The water-level in the loch was reduced in 1874, leaving the broch high and dry. The broch is situated within a walled enclosure and, unusually for brochs, features a large 'blockhouse' between the opening in the enclosure and the broch itself. Another unusual feature is a stone slab featuring sculptured footprints, located in the causeway which approached the site. Situated across the loch is the Clickimin Leisure Centre.

Choros Kaveiriou