Franchthi Cave Cave

Address: Franchthi Cave, near Kiladha, Argolis, Peloponnese, Greece

Admission: Access to the cave area is free; guided tours to the site may be available through local archaeological centers

Franchthi Cave is a prehistoric rock-shelter on the eastern coast of the Peloponnese in Greece known for an exceptionally long archaeological sequence of human occupation. The site preserves evidence spanning the Upper Paleolithic, Epipaleolithic and Neolithic periods and has been important for studies of early Mediterranean prehistory.

Archaeological layers have produced stone tools, faunal remains, marine shell, early pottery and evidence of long-distance exchange in the form of obsidian tools sourced to the island of Melos. The site has contributed to understanding of subsistence, technology and coastal adaptation over many millennia.

Systematic excavations in the 20th century established the depth and continuity of occupation, making Franchthi one of the key prehistoric sites in Greece for the Palaeolithic-to-Neolithic transition.

The cave is located on the Argolic Gulf coast of the Peloponnese, overlooking a sheltered bay and near small coastal settlements in Argolis.

• Long sequence and obsidian finds: Excavations at the site recovered long sequences of occupation from the Upper Paleolithic through the Neolithic, including evidence for early use of obsidian from the island of Melos.

Franchthi Cave is near the village of Kiladha in Argolis. From Nafplio or Ermioni, drive along regional roads toward Kiladha; local signposts and small parking areas mark the approach. The site can be reached by car with a short walk to the cave entrance.

• Arrive with sturdy shoes-approach trails to the cave can be rocky and slippery.
• Bring a headlamp if exploring any non-publicly lit areas; most of the accessible cave can be visited during daylight walks.
• The site is archaeologically sensitive-do not touch exposed finds or remove anything from the cave.