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Historical places

Hams' Caves

4.3 · 11,115 reviews
Cool, acoustic, and dimly lit
Hams' Caves, Ma-4020, Km. 11, 07680 Manacor, Illes Balears, Spain
Interesting facts
1

The caves were the first in Spain to offer public electric lighting.

2

The name 'Hams' derives from the Catalan word for 'fish hooks', referring to the peculiar, curved stalactite formations.

3

A specialized botanical garden is located at the cave entrance, featuring Mediterranean flora.

4

The 'Sea of Venice' is an underground lake where a musical performance is held on a boat.

5

The Round Cave serves as an open-air geological garden filled with native Mallorcan vegetation.

6

Scientific research has identified rare endemic crustacean species within the cave's subterranean waters.

Overview

Hams' Caves, located near Manacor in Mallorca, are distinguished by their unique fish-hook shaped stalactites and the subterranean 'Sea of Venice' lake. The site features a guided tour that concludes with a light and classical music performance inside the main cavern. Geologically, the caves were formed in the Jurassic period, approximately 10 million years ago. The tour route traverses three distinct chambers: the Round Cave, the Blue Cave, and the Classic Cave. The cave system was discovered in 1905 by Pedro Caldentey. Artificial lighting is strategically used to highlight the formations, including the rare 'Hams' (hooks) that give the site its name. The temperature remains consistent throughout the year, independent of external weather conditions. Access involves walking through modified paths and stairs within the subterranean environment.

Photo spot

The edge of the 'Sea of Venice' lake during the illumination sequence.

Insider tips

Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear, as the cave paths can be damp and slippery.

Bring a light jacket, as the interior temperature is significantly cooler than the Mallorcan exterior.

Arrive early in the day to avoid the largest tour groups during the peak summer season.

What to avoid

Do not touch the stalactites, as oils from human skin stop their growth and degrade the formations.

Good to know

Open daily throughout the year, though tour frequencies may increase during the summer months.

Etiquette

Flash photography is strictly prohibited inside the cave sections to preserve the environment and avoid disturbing the musical performance.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning during the spring or autumn months to avoid peak heat and high-season crowds.
Address
Hams' Caves, Ma-4020, Km. 11, 07680 Manacor, Illes Balears, Spain
39.546, 3.320
Get directions
Details
Key attractionsSea of Venice lake, Round Cave, fish-hook stalactites

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning during the spring or autumn months to avoid peak heat and high-season crowds..

The edge of the 'Sea of Venice' lake during the illumination sequence.

Close by you'll find Drach Caves, Torre del Serral dels Falcons, Església de la Mare de Déu del Carme de Portocristo.