The Mira de Aire caves were discovered in 1947 and when the first men entered the cave, the space was so large that it was difficult to see the walls and stalactites that hung from the ceiling. When the good news arrived in the capital, there were many specialists, speleologists who went to Mira de Aire. Later, the “Pulpit” was discovered, a narrow path that led to the continuation of the cave. Next to this “Pulpit” was found a well about 20 meters deep, which would be called the 2nd well.

Later, the “Galeria Grande” would be discovered, a route where you can see the famous “Fountain of Pearls”, “Galerias do Polvo” and “Rio Negro”, among others. During the 60s, specialists and competent authorities, excited by the discovery, built wooden platforms and stairs, in order to allow the public to finally get to know the caves of Mira de Aire. The opening takes place in 1974.

The central region of Portugal is occupied by limestone mountains. Located between Alcanena, Torres Novas, Ourém, Leiria, Batalha, Alcobaça, Porto de Mós, Alcobaça and Rio Maior, it has two main mountains, Serra de Aire and Serra dos Candeeiros. In this region, which is not crossed by any river, rainwater seeps into rock crevices and therefore did not create rivers.

For more information, visit the official website of the Grutas de Mira d’Aire, here.