Cueva de los Verdes, Lava tube cave in Lanzarote, Spain
Cueva de los Verdes is a lava tube in Lanzarote, Spain, that runs through several connected galleries of varying heights and widths. The tunnel system stretches from the northern coast inland, showing natural formations of cooled lava with arched ceilings and layered rock walls.
The tunnel formed during an eruption of La Corona Volcano around 4000 years ago, when molten rock created an underground passage system. Over the centuries, locals used the galleries for shelter during raids until the site opened to visitors in the second half of the 20th century.
The name comes from the Verde family, who lived and farmed nearby in the 18th century. Visitors today explore a series of passages once used as a refuge during coastal raids and now opened through guided visits.
All visits require a guided tour that leads through the main galleries and lit sections. The path inside is mostly level but in places low and damp, so sturdy shoes and a jacket are recommended.
One of the chambers holds an underground lake that appears twice as deep due to an optical illusion. In reality, a reflective surface created by mirror effects and lighting surprises many visitors when they learn the truth.
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