Park nacional cueva de las maravillas, Underground cave system in San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic.
Park nacional cueva de las maravillas is an underground cave system extending approximately 800 meters with numerous stalactites, stalagmites, and an artificial lake reflecting the cave ceiling. The space includes distinct sections with rock formations enhanced by special lighting systems designed to highlight natural features.
Local farmers discovered the cave in 1926 while searching for water sources, leading to its official opening as a tourist destination in 1949. This discovery transformed the site from a hidden underground space into an important destination for visitors to the region.
The walls display indigenous pictographs showing human figures, owls, snakes, and iguanas created by Taíno people. These images reveal how ancient inhabitants used this space for spiritual and ceremonial purposes connected to their beliefs about the afterlife.
Wear sturdy shoes because the paths underground can be slippery and have uneven surfaces that require careful footing. An elevator and accessible ramps make navigation comfortable, and guided tours last approximately 45 minutes with staff fluent in English, French, and Spanish.
The Grand Panel section holds the largest concentration of indigenous artwork within the entire cave system. This distinctive area demonstrates the artistic skill of Taíno artisans who carved complex scenes and intricate details into the rock face.
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