The beautiful caves of Canelobre are situated in Busot, approximately 24km from Alicantye
The beautiful caves of Canelobre are situated in Busot, approximately 24km from Alicante
Situated at a height of 700 meters above sea level in the Cabeza de Oro mountains, the caves are one of the main touristic attractions on Costa Blanca.
The caves are made of limestone from the Upper Jurassic period and are 145 million years old. However, it is believed that they were not discovered until the 10th century.
Later, in the 19th century, the first explorations began. Although it may seem incredible, it was not until the second half of the 20th century that the caves were opened to the public.
One of the great historical curiosities of the site is that the Republican side used them to carry out aircraft repairs during the Civil War. Specifically, 3 metal platforms were erected where the engines for the Soviet aircraft Polikarpov I-16 were built, thus becoming a real aircraft workshop .
Some damage was done to the interior rock formations but fortunately a lot survived.
The interior space inside of the caves is 70 meters tall with a vaulted Cathedral like domed ceiling, and approx 80.000 square meters is accessible through the 45 meters long entrance tunnel.
The natural appearance of the cave is enhanced by an intricate lighting system and once inside, the beautiful and impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and columns are clearly visible and there are numerous rocks that have shapes reminiscent of everyday objects or animals, a virgin, a jellyfish, a pig, and a dragon
“La Sagrada Familia” is a set of rocky columns 25 meters tall that resemble one of Gaudi’s famous works, and a 145,000 years old stalagmite in the center of the room resembles a chandelier, ‘Canelobre’ from where the caves get their name.
Furthermore, the cave has excellent acoustics because of its Cathedral like vaulted domed ceiling and is the perfect stage for many musical concerts, creating a special sound that adds to the lighting and wonderful rock formations to generate an almost unique experience.