Gruta das Torres, Natural monument and lava cave in Criação Velha, Azores, Portugal
The volcanic cave system extends over 5.2 kilometers through interconnected tunnels formed by ancient lava flows on the western slopes of Pico Island.
The first scientific exploration of the cave occurred in 1990, leading to its documentation as the longest lava tube in the Azores by speleologists in 1991.
The cave received protection status as a regional natural monument in 2004, reflecting the Portuguese commitment to preserve geological formations in the Azores.
The first 450 meters of the cave system remain open for guided tours with groups of 15 people, maintaining a year-round temperature of 16 degrees Celsius.
The tunnel structure displays seven distinct wall layers with lateral benches and three cornices, demonstrating an elaborate drainage pattern from past volcanic activity.
Location: Azores
Inception: 2004
GPS coordinates: 38.49430,-28.50240
Latest update: March 15, 2025 14:02
Portugal contains places such as the stone houses of Monsanto, Almourol Castle on the Tagus River, and Peneda-Gerês National Park. This selection includes medieval villages, coastal trails, historic bookstores, monasteries and natural areas. From the Azores to the Algarve, visitors find volcanic craters, fortresses, thermal springs and geological formations.
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Fort of Santa Cruz
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Fajã de João Dias
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Nature Park of Santa Maria
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Cultura da Vinha-Zona Norte
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Fajã do Belo
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Antiga Fábrica da Baleia do Porto Pim
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Capela de Nossa Senhora da Guia (Horta)
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Fuerte de São Sebastião de Porto Pim
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Reduto da Patrulha
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Ponta de São Mateus Lighthouse
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Forte de Porto Pim
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Horta Breakwater Light
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Paços do Concelho da Madalena do Pico
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Madalena Pier Head Light
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Piscinas da Madalena
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Câmara Municipal da Horta
11.8 kmReviews
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