HERCULES CAVES
In these open caves licked by the tumultuous waters of the Atlantic, the destinies of Hercules and Polyphemus meet.
The Grottes d'Hercule have been a well-known tourist attraction since the 1920s. These natural limestone caves open onto the sea, which enters at high tide. Mythology has it that Hercules retreated there once his exploits were accomplished, and that he hollowed out the Strait of Gibraltar by moving mountains (Gibraltar's Jebel Tarik in Europe and Jebel Moussa in Africa, near Ceuta). He is also credited with building the caves near Tangier. For some, this was the home of the Cyclops Polyphemus, son of Poseidon, the god of the sea, whom Ulysses poked in the eye during his voyage. In fact, the caves are thought to have been dug in Neolithic times, when the rock was exploited for a variety of purposes and tools. Inside the caves, a main corridor leads to several rooms. Characteristically shaped openings cut into the walls, offering glimpses of the ocean. The most famous opening is shaped like a map of Africa! You can even see Madagascar! A real attraction... not lost on the souvenir sellers who have set up shop right inside the caves. They offer kitschy products, just like the concrete staircase adorned with shells that now leads to the site. Could tourism be destroying the Hercules caves? Uncontrolled construction in the vicinity of the site and real estate speculation are seriously threatening the caves' existence. One section even collapsed recently..
Book the Best Activities with Get Your Guide
Members' reviews on HERCULES CAVES
N'hésitez pas à descendre dans les grottes, c'est assez impressionnant
Find unique Stay Offers with our Partners
Grotte en bord de mer faisant reference a la mytholgie et hercule
Plusieurs restaurants autour