Grotte de la Reine Hortense, Cave entrance in Île des Pins, New Caledonia.
The limestone cave features a large entrance adorned with stalactites, leading to a network of tunnels filled with mineral formations and natural light wells.
In 1855, the cave provided shelter to Queen Hortense, daughter of Chief Kaoua Vendégou, during a period of intense tribal conflicts on the island.
A small temple inside the cave contains a Virgin Mary statue with fresh flowers, commemorating Queen Hortense, the first Melanesian woman to learn French.
The site requires an entrance fee of 300 XPF, and visitors should bring flashlights to explore the dark sections of the cave system safely.
The cave ceiling displays an unusual natural phenomenon where banyan tree roots penetrate through openings, creating vertical columns within the space.
Location: Île des Pins
Address: Rte de la Reine Hortense, New Caledonia
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 09:00-12:00
GPS coordinates: -22.58564,167.47380
Latest update: March 3, 2025 14:05
Natural and cultural sites of New Caledonia, featuring national parks, beaches, islands, bays, historical monuments, and cultural centers. This South Pacific region offers natural geological formations, marine reserves, colonial and religious buildings, as well as traditional Kanak sites. The territory includes diving spots, caves, cliffs, maritime lighthouses, and local markets representing the natural and architectural heritage of the archipelago.
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