Gruta de las Maravillas: A Realm of Stalactites, Stalagmites & Underground Lakes
The Gruta de las Maravillas lies beneath the hills of Aracena (Huelva) as a vast stone sanctuary. Over 1.2 km of illuminated walkways traverse chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites, calcite curtains and glassy subterranean lakes.
Discovery
In late 1886 a local explorer found a natural opening leading to this labyrinth of living rock. Opened to visitors in 1914 as Spain’s first show cave, engineer Juan Pérez de Oyuela designed it to preserve every formation.
Highlights
- Hall of Orbs: Tiny water droplets suspended from the ceiling that resonate when tapped.
- Bat Gallery: Featuring delicate calcite curtains and old bat colonies.
- Emperor’s Grotto: Majestic vaults and petrified pillars evoking a natural basilica.
- Mirror Lake: A crystal-clear pool reflecting columns and arches in perfect symmetry.
Visit Experience
- Guided tour of ~45 minutes via safe walkways.
- Stable 19 °C temperature and ~95 % humidity—bring a light jacket.
- Small groups ensure silence and optimal conservation.
Opening & Tickets
Open daily 10:00–18:00 (seasonal hours vary). Tickets at the cave entrance or online. Discounts for under-12s; free for children ≤5 years.
Why It’s Special
As Andalusia’s oldest show cave with over a century of history, the Gruta de las Maravillas stands out for its superb conservation and geomorphological richness, offering a sensory journey underground.
How to get there
Decimal: 37.891111°, -6.564722°
DMS: 37°53'28" N, 6°33'53" O
