The cave of Trophonius The expression, 'he has visited the cave of Trophonius' was used to describe a melancholy man. The cave of Trophonius was one of the most celebrated oracles of Greece. The entrance was so narrow that anyone who went to consult the oracle had to lie on his back with his feet towards the cave, whereupon he was caught by some unseen force and violently pulled inside the cave. After remaining there a time, he was driven out in similar fashion, and looked both pale and terrified.
Last modified 17 March 2002