The Myth of the Pirate Caves of Plakias

Plakias offers more than just diving! Clearly visible from shore and sea are 2 majestic openings in the bay of Plakias’ rock formations. Made by a thirsty giant, used as a lookout for pirates, a loading dock for submarines, or maybe old coal mines? This place has inspired many stories. 📜 🖌️

The truth is that almost 100 years ago, these holes were used to ship brown coal at the end of a 2km long railroad from below the village of Myrthios. It was that very same coal company that build the first buildings of Plakias! Later, in the second world war, the caves and railroad were used by German forces to fuel and restock ships and, supposedly, even submarines. 

When diving from the dive site “Paligremnos Wall”, these rails’ remains can still be found, along with other caves hidden below the surface! 

 But what about those pirates? That remains a mystery to us. However, the treasure is there for all to admire: A stunning view on the golden beach of Plakias. 🌅

Another tall tale is carried in these caves’ local name: “gonates”, Greek for “knees”. According to Mythology, they’re shaped by the knees of a giant as he kneeled down to drink from the Preveli river. 

Speaking of a “giant” thirst, our tip: explore these caves in the late afternoon and finish in one of the nearby beach bars for a deserved refreshment. You will find the best angle to enjoy the sunset behind yet another mythical guard of Plakias: the sleeping Dragon. 🐉