The peak of Mount Taygetos is shaped like a pyramid. Co-ordinates: 36º57'12" Ν / 22º21'2" Ε. It is said to be the first pyramid ever built in the world. But this raises the question of whether it is the work of nature or whether it is man-made.
There is one pyramid in Greece and its authenticity is contested. It is the rock-pyramid of Mount Taygetos. A number of researchers think its pyramid-like shape is the result of the mountain rock having been hewn away, while others are of the opinion that it is a natural pyramid and not due to human intervention. It is, however, most curious that the terrain changes abruptly at its base, becoming quite smooth and even.
Given that no serious scientific measurements or in-depth studies have been carried out to date, TALETON Guest House would like to help settle the issue by awarding a monetary prize to any research team that can prove the pyramid is not of natural origin.
According to traveller and geographer Pausanias (3.20. 3-4), ancient Greeks made sacrifices to Apollo and Zeus on the mountain peak which they called Taleton "Άκρα δέ του Ταϋγέτου Ταλετόν υπέρ Βρυσέων άνέχει...". As the new religion spread, the name of the peak changed to Prophet Ilias and now faithful Christians from Laconia and Messinia go to this same spot on the night of the 19th to the 20th of July every year and burn huge stacks of incense to honour the memory of Prophet Ilias. The fire can be seen from many parts of Laconia and Messinia.
