The Mira de Aire Caves are one of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders and the largest tourist caves in the country.
They were discovered in 1947 and have since received millions of visitors.
They are located in a limestone mountain area with no surface rivers, in Mira de Aire, municipality of Porto de Mós, district of Leiria.
In this region, rainwater does not flow on the surface but instead seeps into cracks in the rocks.
As it penetrates limestone fissures, the water dissolves the rock, enlarging it and forming corridors and natural shafts called “algares”.
The caves were discovered when locals entered one of these shafts.
Their size and beauty make them an unmissable tourist destination.
Over the years, more galleries have been opened to the public and the cave system now extends for around 11 km.
However, only about 600 meters are open to visitors, while new galleries continue to be discovered regularly.