|
Why do people still live in caves?
Since the Arab invasion of Spain, there have been cave dwellers
in the north eastern area of Andalucia.
In more recent times, and up to the 1950's, it was the native farming
communities who used caves for shelter, both for their families
and their livestock.
As the economic climate of Spain changed with mass tourism, rural
populations began to fall rapidily as people flocked to work on
the coast. Many caves were abandoned.
Once again as the needs of the populus have changed, many people,
amongst them many British and other northern Europeans, inhibited
by cost and climatic conditions in their native countries, are attracted
to the idea of escaping from the busier resort areas of Andalusia
and integrating into a more rural and peaceful way of life. Cave
houses have once again enjoyed a revival in popularity.
Giving a traditional cave a modern make-over has proven to be very
successful.
These cave houses have more to offer than ever before. The 21st
century Andalusian cave house, once reformed, is equipped with all
mod cons.
As well as the necessary water and electricity supplies, many have
phone and thus internet connection.
The internal cave temperature is an approximate constant of 18o
- 20o C throughout the year, due to the natural insulation of the
rock into which it is built. Cave houses are therefore cool in summer
and warm in winter. Most caves have a fire place which, depending
on the caves location, maybe necessary for the colder months of
the year.
Cave houses are generally ecologically sound and the area lends
itself perfectly to utilising alternative energy souces, such as
solar and wind, leading to even lower maintenance costs.
No two caves are alike. They have individual charm and personality;
each cave house is unique in design and most are adaptable to your
needs.
The size of caves varies from one bedroom homes to large six to
eight bedroom family homes/business opportunties. Many have two
or more bathrooms and they often have large kitchens and bodegas
(pantries). Caves can be extended into the rock as far as you wish,
all building works should be carried out by a legal and qualified
builder who will liase with the local town hall if permission is
required for the type of works to be carried out.
Additional benefits of considering a cave house are that they are
still affordable with relatively low purchase costs.
As with any 're-discovered' way of life their increasing popularity
is leading to price increases, so there could not be a better time
to invest in a Cave house.
|