A joint expedition between the Greek Ministry of Culture and the University of Crete has revealed a sanctuary dedicated to the Titaness Rhea, the mother of the Olympian gods, on the southern slopes of Mount Ida. The 4th-century BCE site is located near the legendary Ideon Cave and features a limestone courtyard with a central pit for burnt offerings. This find confirms the long-standing local tradition of Rhea-worship persisting into the Hellenistic period.
The most remarkable artifacts recovered are three large, decorated terracotta drums, which were used in the ecstatic ritual dances performed by the Kouretes, Rhea's mythical protectors. These drums are adorned with figures of dancing youths clashing shields, providing a rare tangible link to the auditory and performative aspects of ancient Cretan mystery cults. The team also found several bronze fibulae and delicate gold leaf ornaments likely used as hair decorations by priestesses during festivals.