• Location 2 km from Melidoni village,27 kmfrom Rethymno
• Altitude 220 meters
• Stalactite Chambers Heroes' Room, Crossroads, Pasley, Sinkhole Chamber
• Historical Event Siege and mass death of 400 Cretans by Hussein Bey in 1824
• Antiquity Worship of Talos and later Hermes
• Archaeological Findings Displayed at the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno

The Melidoni Cave, also known as Gerontospilios, is renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance. Located about 2 km northwest of Melidoni village in the Mylopotamos municipality of Rethymno, the cave sits at an altitude of 220 meters and is approximately 27 km from Rethymno. Its chambers feature stunning formations of stalagmites and stalactites, including the "Room of Heroes," where a memorial and ossuary honor Cretan heroes who sacrificed themselves in 1824. Other impressive halls include the "Crossroads," the "Upper Chamber," and the "Chamber of Sinkholes," which enhance the cave’s atmospheric allure.

The cave served as an important site of worship in ancient times. During the Minoan period, it was a sacred place for the bronze giant Talos, protector of Crete, while in the Roman period, worship was dedicated to the god Hermes. Archaeological findings from the cave are on display at the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, attesting to its long-standing significance as a religious center.

In 1823, under Ottoman occupation, the cave sheltered 370 women and children along with 30 warriors. Hussein Bey ordered the cave to be besieged, and when defenders refused to surrender, he set fire to the cave entrance, leading to the tragic asphyxiation of all inside.

Today, the cave offers a unique experience for visitors, who can uncover its historic and religious significance as they explore the chambers and admire the impressive decoration of its natural formations.