Scurati Caves, Prehistoric cave complex in Custonaci, Italy
The Scurati Caves are a system of nine natural limestone chambers in Custonaci, with the Mangiapane cave being the largest of the group. This main cave rises to approximately 70 meters in height and extends roughly 50 meters into the earth.
The cave system served as a shelter for early humans in prehistoric times, who left traces of their presence within its walls. In more recent centuries, starting from 1819, the largest cave became a permanent home where families built a small village that lasted until the mid-twentieth century.
The caves contain rock paintings left by people who once made their homes here, offering glimpses into their daily lives. Walking through the cavities, you can observe these ancient marks and think about the generations who sheltered within these natural walls.
The caves can be explored with guided tours offered in several languages that explain the natural formations and historical context. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for uneven ground and varying light conditions as you move through the underground passages.
A reconstructed nineteenth-century village sits inside the largest cave, displaying household items and tools that show how families actually lived in this underground space. The arrangement of rooms and objects gives visitors a sense of the routines and challenges of dwelling beneath the earth.
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