5 Extraordinary Uses Of Caves

5. Ayala Cave Disco, Trinidad, Cuba

On the outskirts of the historic, colonial town of Trinidad in Cuba, lies one of the most incredible caves. Stalactites hang from the ceiling, furniture and ornaments are made of rock, and the whole place is lit with disco lights and dances to the sound of Cuban music.

People dancing in Ayala cave disco

It is absolutely magical, and it's the only one on the list that I have seen with my own eyes.

4. Khao Luang Cave Temple, Thailand

Khao Luang is not only one of the most important temples in its province Phetchaburi; it is also one of the most beautiful. The cave entrance is preceded by a set of concrete stairs from the foothills of the eponymous hill. The temple is famed for its architecture and the stunning Buddha statue, ordered by the King Chulalongkon. Altogether, 170 Buddha statues glisten inside the cave.

3. Cave Hotels, Cappadocia, Turkey

Cave Hotel Cappadocia

Our list of the five most amazing uses for caves would not be complete without at least mentioning some of the amazing caves from the region of Cappadocia, Turkey. We could do a whole blog post about it; however that might be a bit unfair.

Gamisaru Cave Hotel

The region is famous for its unique geological and historical wonders, such as underground cities, cave temples and cave hotels. It is a haven for tourists. Below are just some of the incredible places you can stay in.

2. Cave School: Dongzhong Primary school

In southwest China’s Guizhou province, a huge cave has been used for something extraordinary. The cave, which is carved inside a mountain and was formed naturally over thousands of years by wind, water and seismic activity, is now home to a primary school, complete with basketball courts, teaching rooms and small buildings.

Teaching room at the cave school

Buildings inside the cave school

Kids playing basketball in the cave school

1. The Secret Cave City of Arras, WW1

Underneath the northern French town of Arras, a secret city housing 25,000 soldiers just yards beneath the unsuspecting enemy was built.

This massive feat of engineering included chapels, canteens, power stations, a light railway and a fully functioning hospital.

This “mega trench” was built after the slaughter at the battle of the Somme in 1916, when British generals attempted a new major offensive at Arras.

This is perhaps one of the most amazing symbols of World War One: ingenuity, futility, determination, manpower and darkness all form part of this incredible underground city.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4 as well as numerous direct sources.

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