Pulpí Geode: The World’s Only Visit-Able Giant Geode and Europe’s Largest

Por Ayuntamiento de Pulpí

Located 50 m below ground in the historic Mina Rica of Pilar de Jaravía (Almería), the Pulpí Geode is Europe’s largest geode and the only “giant” geode in the world open to visitors. This subterranean crystal cathedral of pristine gypsum shines like a field of diamonds under its gentle interior lighting.

What Is a Geode?

A geode is a natural cavity in rock where mineral‐rich water has, over millennia, formed spectacular crystal growths, creating an inner world of glittering formations.

Why Is the Pulpí Geode Unique?

Dimensions: approximately 8 m long, 1.8 m wide and 1.7 m high.
Gypsum crystals up to 2 m in length, with exceptional clarity and brilliance.
Accessible to the public without extreme temperature or humidity restrictions, unlike other giant geodes (e.g., Naica in Mexico).

Discovery and Development

Discovered in December 1999 by the Madrid Mineralogical Group.
Remained hidden and semi‐abandoned until 2019, when over 600 t of debris were removed to install walkways and lighting.

Visitor Information

Open since 5 August 2019 by prior reservation.
Stable 20 °C environment; no special suits required.
Guided tours through more than 300 m of underground galleries.

Highlights of the Tour

Smaller gypsum, celestine and barite geodes.
Rock folds and speleothems illustrating the site’s geological history.
The “Great Geode” revealed through an artificial portal, with crystal edges up to 2 m.

Conservation Rules

No entry into the crystal chambers (research access only).
Do not touch or approach the crystals.
Children under 8 not permitted.
Hard hats required at all times.

The Pulpí Geode is a journey to the heart of the Earth, where crystals tell a story of millions of years. Don your helmet, book your tour, and prepare to be awed by this one-of-a-kind subterranean cathedral.