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Nerja Caves
The Nerja Caves, located near the town of Nerja in the province of Málaga, are a massive complex of caverns extending for nearly five kilometers through the limestone of the Sierra de Almijara. Discovered in 1959 by five local friends on a chance expedition, the caves have since become one of Spain's most visited natural landmarks and a site of profound archaeological significance. The system is renowned for housing the world's largest stalactite-stalagmite column, standing 32 meters high in the Hall of the Cataclysm, a feat recognized by the Guinness World Records. Beyond their geological splendor, the caves served as a crucial shelter for prehistoric humans for over 25,000 years, yielding a wealth of artifacts including ceramics, tools, and skeletal remains from the Solutrean and Magdalenian periods. Of particular interest are the cave paintings, including depictions of seals that some researchers believe could be up to 42,000 years old, potentially making them the oldest known artworks created by humans or Neanderthals. Since 1960, the natural amphitheater within the caves has hosted the International Festival of Music and Dance, drawing global performers to its acoustically great chambers. Today, the site is protected as a Property of Cultural Interest, balancing its role as a major tourist attraction with ongoing scientific research into subterranean climates, mineralogy, and human evolution in the Mediterranean basin.
- Location: Galicia, Spain
- Top sights: Cala del Pino · Playa de Maro · Playa de La Caleta
- Nearby: Frigiliana (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 8 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 18 | 23 | 26 | 26 | 22 | 17 | 11 | 9 |
| Rain mm | 40 | 43 | 56 | 42 | 24 | 4 | 1 | 3 | 26 | 47 | 61 | 53 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The cave system was accidentally discovered by teenagers in January 1959
- The subterranean network stretches for a total of nearly 5 kilometers
- The central column in the Hall of Cataclysm stands 32 meters high
- Listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest stalactite column
- Contains prehistoric art that experts suggest could be over 40,000 years old
- A natural amphitheater within the cave hosts an annual summer music festival
- Only about one-third of the vast cave system is open to public viewing
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Nerja Caves (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the cave wheelchair accessible?
Are there parking spaces there?
When was the cave discovered?
Can you eat there?
Are there audio guides?
Nerja Caves: where is it located?
Nerja Caves: what is there to see?
Nerja Caves: when is the best time to visit?
Nerja Caves: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
