Crater Stefanos

The crater is about 300 meters in circumference, 27 meters deep and ellipsoid-shaped. The exact age of the crater is not clear, however, because it is found in loose and soft rocks, easily eroded by weather, and does not appear to be older than 3,000 to 4,000 years.

When rainwater enters the interior of the crater, a few meters below its surface, it meets temperatures above 100 degrees Celsius. Thus, it begins to heat up and converts to steam, which exerts pressure on the surface of the crater and causes small explosions, creating round funnels, the holes, that is, in the crater. Along with steam are other gases, one of which is hydrogen sulphide, which is due to the characteristic odor in space.

Designation

It used to be called Megalo Aloni or Akolos.

You can approach the point from two paths.

• The first and best known: starting from Mandraki, through the Mandraki provincial road heading east, following the road to Palous and then to Emporio. As you approach Emporio, continue straight and then turn right. It's an easy and enjoyable route.
• The second: starting from Mandraki, via the western Mandraki provincial road heading south. It is the same road that leads to the Holy Monastery of the Holy Cross. After the monastery, the road is a little difficult, but it is still accessible.

If possible, you can approach the point from one route and return from the other, and both are very beautiful routes.