The Eye of the Devil

The Eye of the Devil (*To Mati tou Diavolou*) is one of the most fascinating natural phenomena on Koufonissia. This hidden cave is located along the coastal path near the famous **Pori Beach**.

The name and legend surrounding this place stem from the spectacular, almost supernatural interplay between the rocks and the sea:

In a low, dark cave, a large hole is located in the rocky floor that is directly connected to the sea below. When the waves rush in, the water sprays upwards powerfully and fills the cave, only to disappear back into the depths shortly thereafter with a loud sighing and sucking sound.

Local islanders used to believe that the devil himself peered from the underworld through this "eye" into the upper world. After all, the dark rock hole resembled a pupil, and the relentless rumbling and churning of the water sounded like the breathing or snorting of evil.

In Greek folklore, the *evil eye* (*kako mati*) symbolizes misfortune. It was believed that this specific hole was a physical gateway to dark forces, causing sailors and fishermen to prefer avoiding the spot during rough seas so as not to be sucked into the depths by the "breath of the devil."

Nowadays, it is a beloved spot for hikers. The phenomenon shows how the wild forces of the Aegean Sea have shaped the myths of the island.

Pascal Brackman