Deep within the province of Almería, in southern Spain, lies a natural phenomenon of global significance that draws the attention of scientists and travelers from around the world. This is the giant geode of Pulpí (Geoda de Pulpí), which is not only the largest in the world open to visitors, but has also been nominated for inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
This unique geological formation was discovered in 1999 in the abandoned Mina Rica mine (Mina Rica). The geode is an eight-meter-long cavity, about two meters high, with walls entirely lined with enormous gypsum crystals. The transparency, purity, and size of these crystals—some reaching up to two meters in length—create a truly breathtaking sight. Descending more than 60 meters below ground, visitors find themselves inside a true natural treasure formed over hundreds of thousands of years.
The history of this site is closely linked to the region’s mining industry. Since the 19th century, iron and silver-bearing galena ore have been extracted from the mountains of Sierra del Aguilón (Sierra del Aguilón). The mines were the economic hub of the area, but after the Civil War, they were abandoned. The discovery of the geode at the end of the 20th century brought new life to Mina Rica, transforming it from an industrial facility into a cultural and tourist center of global importance.
Since 2019, the complex has been open to the public. Visitors can take a guided tour that lasts about an hour and a half. The route passes through the main galleries of the old mine, where other fascinating mineral formations can also be seen, and ends at the entrance to the geode itself. For safety reasons and to preserve the unique microclimate, access to the cavity with the crystals is restricted, but it can be viewed perfectly from a special platform.
It is recommended to book tickets for this natural wonder in advance, as group sizes are limited. Admission is €22 for adults and €10 for children; special rates are available for local residents. Visitors are required to wear comfortable closed shoes. In addition, a combined ticket often includes visits to other attractions in the municipality, such as Castillo de San Juan de los Terreros and the museum of artist Pedro Antonio, making the trip even more eventful.
