The town of Gaudix is well off the beaten path. Whilst it has an impressive cathedral, the most interesting feature is that many of the inhabitants of this large town live underground in what are known as cave houses.
Stepping into the glaring sun and gazing at the caves, we understood why they were so popular. The jagged ochre terrain and the dazzling whitewashed chimneys and doors of the caves contrast dramatically. The cave district is known as the "Barrio Troglodyte".
The underground dwellings shield the house from the hot and glaring sun, enjoying cool temperatures in the summer and warmth in the winter.
The "troglodytes" are very friendly people and proud. We were invited in to have a look at one resident’s home. It was well-appointed, like any other Spanish home, quite basic by modern standards, but with fitted kitchens and bathrooms.
The Andalucians have been fond of living underground because it is the best way of escaping the summer heat, and the home we visited has an even and comfortable 20C year round.
