Situées à plus de 300 mètres au-dessus du niveau de la mer, elles font partie des plus belles grottes d'Europe.

Les grottes St-Michael ont intéressées les visiteurs depuis l'époque des romains déjà.

L'histoire raconte que le rocher de Gibraltar était connecté au continent africain par un passage sous-terrain long de 15 miles (24km), sous le détroit.

Les fameux singes de Gibraltar se seraient ainsi rendu jusqu'au rocher.

La galerie principale

L'auditorium

The Cathedral Cave is now open to visitors and makes a unique auditorium for concerts, ballet and drama.

At some period during the history of this cave, part of a stalagmite became to heavy on one side and fell, possibly thousands of years ago.

It now lies on its side at the far end of the main chamber, cemented through the years by nature to the floor of the cave.

In 1792 a slice 18” thick (45cm) was cut off from the top end. What remained was a cross-section which revealed the interior structure of the stalagmite in a most dramatic way. Within a diameter of approximately 4’6” (1.35m) can be seen the history of its growth.

During periods of excessive rain its growth is clearly indicated by light-brown rings and patches. the darker areas were formed during periods of less rain.

But perhaps the two thin lines of crumbly white substance are the most interesting part of its structure.

It is believed that these represent glacial periods. Besides the cross-section the stalagmite is also translucent in certain parts.

This stalagmite which is centuries old enables visitors to see the unique beauty of crystallised nature.

Over one hundred persons can sit in the auditorium of St Michael's Cave.

According to experts in the field, the acoustics of St Michael's Cave are perfect and it enhances and blends all the tones into a uniform and faithful rendition of sound.