Abstract: In a method and apparatus for casting an engine block, a core holding portion located below an open upper mold located above a lower mold fixed on a stationary platen is caused to hold a water jacket formation destructive core surrounding a cylinder bore formation portion. Slide molds divided in a circumferential direction, located between the upper mold and the lower mold, and supported by the upper mold to be opened/closed in a horizontal direction is closed. Mold clamping is performed upon downward movement of the upper mold. A molten metal is injected at a high casting pressure of not less than 300 kg/cm.sup.2 from a molten metal injection sleeve open to a portion at which the lower mold is brought into direct contact with the upper mold.