Gouffre de Poudrey, Natural pit cave in Étalans, France.
Gouffre de Poudrey is a natural sinkhole cave in Étalans featuring an expansive underground chamber roughly 70 meters deep with diverse limestone formations. The cavern displays stalactites, stalagmites, and other mineral deposits that developed through water action over geological time.
Professor Fournier conducted the first systematic study of the cave in 1899 and documented his geological findings. His research established the scientific foundation for the site and eventually led to it opening for public visits.
The name comes from its natural sinkhole formation where water naturally drains into the ground. Visitors can see how the cave's structure and stone formations reflect the region's geology and its connection to water systems.
Wear sturdy shoes since the cave paths are uneven and can be slippery in places. Guided tours are recommended to better understand the rock formations and how they developed.
The main chamber is so large that the entire Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral could fit inside, and an underground lake sits on the cave floor. This active water system shows how the cave continues to change and develop.
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