Caves

Caves are natural spaces formed underground, often featuring spectacular rock formations and large chambers. They are significant to many scientific disciplines: speleology (the study of caves), geology (caves are formed by a variety of geological processes, and can reveal information about the history of an area's rock formations), and archaeology (caves can contain archaeological artifacts). As well as being scientifically significant, caves provide important habitat to unique and diverse species of animals, some of which are not found anywhere else in the world. Caves are also popular tourist attractions and a source of recreation for spelunkers, hikers and climbers.