There are a number of interesting caves with prehistoric significance. Some are natural caves (in Portuguese, grutas) that contain evidence that humans used them for shelter and/or for entombment. Others are man-made, carved into the stone intentionally to create a space (usually) for internment. (In Portuguese these are called gruta artificial or plural grutas artificiais) A man-made cave that was used as a temple or tomb is technically called by the Greek term: hypogeum, plural hypogea. In Portuguese hipogeu, or plural hipogeus, is sometimes used as well as gruta artificial.

Note that caves generally lack evidence of human habitation. Any artefacts found will be displayed in museums.

Use the map in the sidebar to browse or search among the various prehistoric sites. (The “Filters” control in the top right corner allows you to select types of sites.) Highlighted map markers indicate sites that are described on this website. Below is a list of all the cave sites on our website (so far!).