The Fascinating Andalusian Village Built in Caves
Guadix is a small town in Andalusia, Spain. What makes this town unique and fascinating is the way houses are built - inside caves that dot the hills surrounding the town. The caves are not actually caves that have been carved out, but rather homes that have been built into the natural hillsides. The view from above is beautiful - it is like looking at a honeycomb nestled into the hills. The houses are built so organically into the hillsides that they blend in with the general landscape. The interiors of the houses are usually decorated with colorful tiles, beautiful arches and alcoves and sometimes even have balconies and terraces with stunning views. Guadix combines history with modernity. It has some of the most enchanting examples of cave-dwelling architecture in Andalusia. Some of the caves have been transformed into boutique hotels and restaurants. In recent years, there has been an influx of artists who have taken up residence in these unique dwellings. The town is quaint and charming with a Moorish castle, ancient churches, and a cathedral with a mix of gothic and renaissance architecture. Guadix is also home to a weekly open-air market, where one can experience the colorful local culture. As someone who has visited many places on Earth, Guadix was a refreshing change for me. It was interesting to see how people live in harmony with nature in these comfortable and unique cave dwellings.