Mount Zas, also known as Mount Zeus, is the tallest mountain in the Greek Cyclades, which is a group of islands in the Aegean Sea. It is undeniably a treasure trove of history. Mythology has it that when Zeus was born, his father Kronus wanted to swallow him like he did his other children, out of fear of being dethroned. To save her son from such fate, Zeus’s mother hid him in a cave on the mountain where he sought refuge as a child.

This cave, called the Cave of Zas, is in the western side of the mountain and houses impressive stalactites and stalagmites, as well as the fountain of Aries. The mountain itself, which is around a whopping 1000 meters, can be explored through two paths: the Aghia Marina path, named after the chapel where it starts from, or from the Cave of Zas path. Even though the latter is steeper and can be more challenging, it provides for a more interesting journey. Be prepared to use your hands for some parts of the path! You will also find an ancient marble inscription that reads «ΟΡΟΣ ΔΙΟΣ ΜΗΛΩΣΙΟΥ» which means “Mount of Zeus, Protector of the Sheep”. Pretty fascinating, huh?