Argyroupoli Springs Ancient Lappa
Discover ancient rock-cut tombs and a serene gorge walk at Argyroupoli Springs Ancient Lappa, a free historical site in Crete.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Argyroupoli Springs Ancient Lappa
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient rock-cut tombs and a serene gorge walk at Argyroupoli Springs Ancient Lappa, a free historical site in Crete.
"A free and fascinating glimpse into history with a refreshing walk through a beautiful gorge."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path is rocky and uneven; closed-toe shoes are recommended over sandals.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, as you explore the gorge.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Rock-Cut Tombs
Necropolis area
Discover fascinating ancient graves carved directly into the rock face, offering a glimpse into history.
Shady Gorge Walk
Valley floor
Escape the heat with a pleasant stroll through a verdant gorge, shaded by a large, old plane tree.
Historic Church
Near the necropolis
A small church building stands as a historical marker near the ancient burial sites.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ancient Tombs & Natural Beauty
Best Time to Visit & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path is rocky and uneven; closed-toe shoes are recommended over sandals.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, as you explore the gorge.
📚 Research Before You Go
There's no info on-site; learn about the history beforehand for a richer experience.
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking can be scarce, so arrive early or be prepared for a short walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The path is rocky and uneven; closed-toe shoes are recommended over sandals.
💧 Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, as you explore the gorge.
📚 Research Before You Go
There's no info on-site; learn about the history beforehand for a richer experience.
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking can be scarce, so arrive early or be prepared for a short walk.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The natural beauty and ancient sites offer great photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Argyroupoli Springs Ancient Lappa to be a free and historically interesting site with ancient rock-cut tombs and a pleasant gorge walk. While parking can be limited and on-site information is scarce, the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere are appreciated. It's best visited with prior research and comfortable footwear.
"It's a really cool place where you can see ancient graves that were carved inside the rocks. It's for free so no waiting time to be expected. Parking is limited, though and there is a bit of a walk to the actual cemetery. It's doable in Birkenstocks but I'd recommend closed shoes."
Sabine Sieben
"Nice place for a stroll. At the bottom of the valley you can hide from the warmth. You can find necropolis near the old church. Along the way at the huge, old plane tree you can find a table and a bench to have some rest. You cannot ride here with a baby stroller unfortunately as the rode is rocky."
Helena Kliwison
"Took a drive to the mountains mainly to see Argiroupolis and dropped here. Parking is a bit of a problem however it doesn't seem like many people come here. In Fact we only saw 4 people the time we were here. I wouldn't drive here just to see this, but it is worth a visit if you are in the area. From the church to the catacombs it's a place with real history."
Jonny Lyne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The site is located near Argyroupoli village in Rethymno, Crete. Access involves driving on a poorly maintained road, and parking is limited. Many visitors combine a visit with exploring the wider Argyroupoli area.
The road leading to the site is described as badly maintained and rocky, making it unsuitable for baby strollers.
Public transport options are limited for reaching this specific site. It's best accessed by car, and then a short walk from the parking area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The site is free to visit, meaning there are no admission fees or waiting times for tickets.
As it's an open-air historical site, there are no set opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time.
No booking is required as the site is free and open to the public without any ticketing system.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore ancient rock-cut tombs (necropolis), a small historic church, and enjoy a walk through a beautiful, shady gorge.
Unfortunately, there is no information provided on-site. Visitors are advised to research the history beforehand or look for information in the main village square of Argyroupoli.
A visit can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much you explore the gorge and surrounding areas.
While children can visit, the rocky terrain and lack of amenities mean it's best for older children who can navigate the paths safely. Strollers are not recommended.
The 'springs' in the name refer to the natural water sources in the area, but the ancient tombs site itself is not a swimming area. The nearby Argyroupoli village has waterfalls and pools.
📸 📸 Photography
The ancient rock-cut tombs, the old plane tree, and the lush gorge scenery offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Yes, the site is generally uncrowded, making it easy to capture photos without many people in the background.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Explorers
🚗 Day-Trippers in Rethymno
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ancient Necropolis
For those interested in learning more, historical information about the site and its excavations can sometimes be found in the main village square of Argyroupoli. It's recommended to do some research before your visit to fully appreciate the historical significance of these tombs. The experience is enhanced by understanding the context of the Lappa ancient city, of which these tombs were a part.
The Natural Beauty of the Gorge
The gorge itself is a beautiful natural feature, with the 'springs' contributing to its verdant character. While not a swimming spot at the tomb site, the presence of water sustains the rich plant life. The walk is described as rocky and uneven, so appropriate footwear is essential for enjoying the scenery comfortably.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit