In the picturesque municipality of Rincón de la Victoria, just 10 km from Málaga, lies one of the rarest natural wonders in the world: Cueva del Tesoro (Treasure Cave), or Cueva del Higuerón (Fig Tree Cave). This remarkable underground site is one of only three known underwater caves in the world, and the only example in Europe. Carved into a limestone headland overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this cave is not only an unusual geological formation but also a place steeped in history and legend.

The origins of the cave date back to the Jurassic period, millions of years ago, when natural forces shaped the landscape. Over time, isostatic movements caused the limestone terrain to emerge from beneath the sea, preserving the cave as a testament to the dynamic forces of nature. This phenomenon also contributed to the creation of nearby cliffs and platforms, such as El Cantal and Comares, which are remnants of ancient geological formations.

As stunning as its geology, the fame of the Cueva del Tesoro also lies in its rich folklore. According to legend, the cave holds the treasures of five kings of the Almoravid dynasty. The story goes that the last Almoravid king, Tesufin ibn Ali, met his death in 1145 at the hands of the Almohads while on a journey to Andalusia with the royal treasure.

The location of this treasure has been lost to time, but the legend has survived. In the 17th century, Fray Agustín de Milla y Suazo, a historian from Oran, documented the story in his manuscript Historia Eclesiástica y Secular de Málaga y su Obispado. The treasure was said to be hidden in the depths of the cave.

The legend was later expanded upon by Cristóbal Medina Conde in his 1789 work Conversaciones Malagueñas, where he revealed that the cave was used by the Roman general Marco Crasso in 86 BC to hide from the pursuers of Marius and Cinna. The brave band entered the cave in search of treasure but were horrified, convinced that they had seen the imprint of a strange animal – a giant lizard, possibly a caiman – inside the cave. To this day, one of the cave’s labyrinthine rooms contains a rock formation that some say resembles a colossal chameleon, further fueling the mystery.

The legend takes another turn with the discovery of a ceramic lamp containing six Almoravid gold coins, found by Professor Laza Palacio during excavations. Dating from the reign of Ali ibn Yusuf, these coins may indicate a deliberate and ritualistic concealment of the treasure. For some Saharan tribes, descendants of the Almoravids, the number six carries significant mystical and superstitious meaning, adding an eerie layer to the story of the hidden treasure.

The most tragic chapter in the legend belongs to Antonio de la Nari, a Swiss adventurer who dedicated nearly three decades of his life to searching for the lost royal treasure. Armed with dynamite, he attempted to find the treasure by blasting the rocky passages of the cave. His search ended in disaster in 1847, when he died in one of his explosive accidents.

In addition to its rich folklore, Cueva del Tesoro has been a protected site since 1985, when it was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC). Today, visitors can explore the cave and its stunning rock formations, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the mysterious past that has captivated adventurers for centuries.

A trip to Cueva del Tesoro is more than just a trip to a natural wonder, it is an immersion into history, legends, and the irresistible attraction of the treasures hidden beneath the surface. Whether it is the geological wonders of the cave or its fascinating stories that draw you in, this extraordinary place promises to stir the imagination of all who visit.

How to visit the Cueva del Tesoro?

Visiting the Cueva del Tesoro is a fascinating experience for both nature lovers and those interested in the history and legends surrounding this unique place. To do so, it is important to take into account the opening hours, which vary depending on the season:

  • From October to April: The opening hours are from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 15:00 to 17:00.
  • From May to September: The cave is open from 10:30 to 13:00 and from 16:30 to 19:00.

As for the entrance fee, the general cost is 4.65 euros for people between 15 and 64 years old. However, there are reduced rates for retirees, senior citizens, young people, students, and children, who will pay only 2.75 euros. Children under 3 years old can enter for free. In addition, the cave offers free entry during the first hour of opening from Monday to Friday, allowing you to enjoy this place at no cost if you arrive early.

The cave is approximately 2.5 kilometers long, making it a fascinating labyrinth of galleries and rooms. Among the best known are the Sala de la Virgen and the Sala del Volcán, where visitors can observe impressive geological formations, such as stalactites and stalagmites, as well as prehistoric remains. The tour, in which you can take your time to explore and enjoy every corner, lasts about an hour, although it depends on the pace of each visitor.

If you are passionate about the mysteries of nature and history, a visit to the Cueva del Tesoro is an experience you cannot miss. Get ready to immerse yourself in an underground world full of geological wonders and fascinating legends!


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