National Showcaves Centre for Wales
Sightseeing attraction | Swansea | Wales | United Kingdom
The National Showcaves Centre for Wales, also known as Dan-yr-Ogof Caves, is located in the Brecon Beacons National Park in South Wales. It is considered one of the most impressive natural attractions in the United Kingdom and was voted the greatest natural wonder of Britain by Radio Times readers in 2005.
The center comprises an extensive cave system with a total length of about 17 kilometers, of which three main areas are accessible to the public:
1. Dan-yr-Ogof Cave: This cave impresses with its winding passages, impressive stalagmites and stalactites, and underground lakes. It was first explored in 1912 by the Morgan brothers, Edwin, Tommy, and Jeff, who made the initial discoveries with simple tools and great courage.
2. Cathedral Cave: Named for its cathedral-like structure, this cave features high ceilings and spacious chambers. The waterfalls inside are particularly impressive, creating a unique atmosphere.
3. Bone Cave: In this cave, the remains of 42 human skeletons dating back to the Bronze Age were found. It offers a fascinating insight into the prehistoric use of caves as burial sites.
In addition to the caves, the center offers other attractions:
- Dinosaur Park: With over 200 life-sized dinosaur models, visitors can take a journey into the prehistoric world and learn more about these fascinating creatures.
- Shire Horse Centre: Here, visitors can meet the gentle giants of horses and learn more about their history and significance.
- Iron Age Village: A reconstructed settlement from the Iron Age provides insights into the lives of people over 2,000 years ago.
The National Showcaves Centre for Wales thus offers a diverse mix of natural wonders, prehistoric history, and cultural insights that are fascinating for visitors of all ages.
