Grottes Pétrifiantes de Savonnières, Show cave in Villandry, France.
Grottes Pétrifiantes de Savonnières is a show cave with underground chambers filled with mineral formations beneath Villandry. The site displays stalactites, stalagmites, and other mineral structures that have developed over thousands of years.
The cave was discovered in the 19th century and quickly drew visitors. It became an important location for geological research and tourism in the Loire Valley region.
The caves serve as a natural laboratory where scientists study the formation processes of underground mineral structures and their relationship to local geology.
Visitors should bring warm clothing since the temperature below ground stays constantly cool. The guided tours last about one hour and are offered in several languages.
Objects placed in specific spots inside the cave can slowly turn to stone over time. This active petrification process shows how minerals gradually accumulate and harden on surfaces.
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