Grutas da Moeda, Cave system in São Mamede, Portugal.
Grutas da Moeda is a cave system in São Mamede with multiple underground chambers displaying various limestone formations and mineral deposits. The galleries wind through different levels, revealing rocky structures shaped over millions of years into elaborate natural sculptures.
Two hunters discovered the system in 1971 while pursuing a fox, uncovering multiple chambers previously unknown to the public. This chance discovery led to systematic exploration that mapped out the underground passages.
Each chamber has a local name reflecting how people interpret the rock formations, such as Nativity Scene, Shepherd, or Virgin. Visitors can spot these formations and understand the local perspective by walking through the space.
The cave maintains a steady temperature year-round, so bring layers even in warm seasons for comfort during your visit. The ground can be slippery in places, making sturdy footwear and careful footing essential throughout your exploration.
An adjoining scientific center displays a large mineral collection and unusual rock samples extracted from the local limestone layers. These specimens help illustrate how the limestone cave system formed and why it contains such varied geological features.
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