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The myths and beliefs surrounding the Helmos Geopark form an inexhaustible source of cultural and historical interest, offering a fascinating connection between nature and human imagination. These traditions and mythological stories capture the attempt of people to understand and explain natural phenomena through myth and folklore.
The Styx and Its Magical Power
The geotope of the Styx, known for its spring that originates from the depths of Helmos, is linked to one of the most powerful myths of antiquity. According to ancient belief, the waters of the Styx spring were believed to come from the chthonic river of the underworld, the Styx, and were considered magical. The ancient Greeks would swear their oaths there, recreating the Oath of the Gods.
The Myth of Hercules and the Ceryneian Hind
Another notable example is connected to the myth of Hercules and the Ceryneian Hind, which lived on Mount Ceryneia and the geotope of the Sinkholes of Pheneos. According to the myth, Hercules was tasked with capturing the elusive creature, which was an arduous challenge, symbolizing the heroic struggle.
The Sinkholes of Pheneos
The sinkholes of Pheneos are also tied to mythological elements, such as the legend that attributes their creation to Hercules, who dug them to remove the stagnant waters from the area.
The Flood of Ancient Pheneos
Another myth relates to Ancient Pheneos, where Hercules, while transporting the tripod of oracles from Pythia, confronts Apollo. Their dispute leads to the flooding of Ancient Pheneos, thus punishing the inhabitants. These myths continue to evolve, offering multiple versions of the same events.
The Myth of Hercules and the Pass of Portes-Triklia
The rich mythology of the area is often linked to the inability of ancient people to explain the formation of landforms. For example, the myth of Hercules “cutting” the narrow pass at the geotope of Portes-Triklia highlights the human imagination at work, attempting to provide explanations for natural phenomena.
These myths not only form an integral part of the area’s cultural identity but also add to the mystique of the landscape, enriching its natural beauty with stories that have transcended time.
