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The "Cova de
les Calaveres" is situated on the southern borber of the girona valley at an
elevation of neraly 330 feet, in the area of the Marina Alta (province
Alicante).
The Cave has an impressive history. For more than 100.000 years
Palaeolithic dwellers used the place as a refuge. Numerous remnants from the
importance of the cave for its environment. Remainders from bones of larger
mammals as well as tools from primitive men, living in it during the Stone Age,
have been discovered.
Already 5000 years ago the cave served as burial
ground for the inhabitants of the valley. Later and particulary during the
Ibero-Roman epoch the cave was used as a sacred place, where the Gods of
fertility and earth were worshipped. Without doubt its impressive entrance,
surrounded by a magnificent scenery, has attrackted many people's
attention.
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At the
beginning of the 18th century the cave was known to be "fairly large" and the
first explorations took place trying to document its dimensions. In 1768
explorers came across the reamins of 12 persons, who according to a description
of A.J. Cavanilles (about 1795) most likely were moslim peasants who, in
mediaval times, were surprised by water unecpectedly penetrating the cave. This
explains the name "Calaveres" (cadavers). Subsequently this discovery gave rise
to a legend, embellished with tales about Moorish Kings, princesses and
precious treasures. "King Ahli Moho took refuge in the cave with treasures and
150 women from his harem when fleeing for El Cid Campeador (the
"annihilator")".
During the 20th Century the cave was scientifically
investigated by the archeologists H. Breuil (1913-17) and J.J. Senent
(1931-33). In 1936 it served as an ammunition depot during the Spanish civil
war. In the 1960's it was officially opened for the public as a turistic
attracttion. Since then the cave has become a popular place for excursions,
both by the native population and holidays guests. |
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