Lucius is a river in the Peloponnese and a tributary of the Alphios that is about 25 kilometers long.
With its rushing waters it crosses almost all of Gortynia. The river originates from the Lagadina Mountains and the area of Ancient Theseia. Its most important sources are in the plain of Karkalos. After the area of Ancient Gortynos it is called Gortynios, taking its name from it. Its waters maintain the same temperature during winter and summer.
It was named after ancient mythology. According to tradition, in its waters the Nymphs of Theseus, Neda and Agnos bathed Zeus when he was born. The Lucius River Canyon, one of Gortyn's most important sights, is one of the most imposing gorges in the country, providing the visitor with a spectacle of unique beauty. The variations of the landscapes, its natural beauties and its historical religious monuments make it unique. It has been designated "as a single archaeological site" since 1997 and is protected by the Ministry of Culture.
Lucius Canyon is also called the Holy Mountain of the Peloponnese. And this is because there are old churches, monasteries on steep cliffs, but also many hermitages, which were created during the medieval and post-Byzantine period. The monasteries that hang on the rocks of the river gorge impress every visitor. Among them are the I. Monasteries of Prodromos, Philosopher, Kalamios and Amyalones.
The Lucius River and the Gorge offer a variety of activities such as hiking, canoekayak and rafting.