Jenolan Caves, Limestone cave system in Blue Mountains, Australia
The Jenolan Caves extend through 40 kilometers of passages containing pure underground rivers and multiple levels of natural limestone formations.
European settler James Whalan discovered these caves in 1838 while pursuing a local thief, leading to their protection by the government in 1866.
The name Jenolan comes from the Tharawal language, and the caves hold deep meaning in Gundungurra and Wiradjuri Dreamtime narratives.
Due to road repairs and facility upgrades, the entire Jenolan Karst Conservation Reserve remains closed to visitors until 2026.
Scientific dating confirms these caves as the oldest known open cave system worldwide, with formations dating back approximately 340 million years.
Location: New South Wales
GPS coordinates: -33.82056,150.02144
Latest update: May 27, 2025 06:50
Underground locations provide insights into geological processes and human history. Natural caves display limestone formations, stalactites, and subterranean rivers formed over thousands of years. Artificial sites include Roman catacombs, medieval cellars, and mining tunnels that document economic and social developments. This collection features prehistoric burial chambers with wall paintings, extensive cave systems with lakes and passages, and historical mines for salt, copper, or coal. Visitors can explore archaeological findings, mineral formations, and technical installations from earlier periods. Temperatures remain constant throughout the year, and many sites offer guided tours through their underground chambers.
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