Concept in Definition ABC

Words have their own history and evolution. From the Greek kryptós, which means hidden, the Latin word crypta was formed. Later, in vulgar Latin it was called crüpta and then the inhabitants of Sicily called it grutta and this name evolved into the word grotta in Italian. Thus, from the language Italian the word reached the Castilian vocabulary.

To the margin From its etymology, a cave is a hidden place under the earth. In our language we use some synonyms, such as cave, cavern or cavity. These cavities are normally formed by the effect of Water on the calcareous rocks. Thus, the action of the water creates small cracks that slowly become large until they become large holes.

Enigmatic places that attract millions of tourists around the world

Some caves stand out for their spectacular nature. In them are underground lakes and rivers and curious formations of great geological value. Only in Mexico are some of the underground caves with the greatest interest for tourists (the Naica Caves, the Cacahuamilpa Caves or the García Caves). These places also have a

singular interest for lovers of caving.

The grotesque in art

The term grotta in Italian began to be used in the world of art from Renaissance. Thus, when ornaments and decorative motifs were discovered in Roman grottoes, Renaissance artists began to imitate the ornamental style of antiquity. This new trend became known as grotesque and was characterized by the use of images of animals and plants on the roofs and walls of churches.

Over time, the idea of ​​grotesque in artistic manifestations has acquired new senses and meanings.

The Christian catacombs during the Roman Empire

Apart from natural caves, human beings have built underground structures for some purpose. The Christian catacombs are chambers built underground for the purpose of burying the dead.

The first followers of Christ who lived in the city of Rome were persecuted by the authorities. To bury the deceased according to Christian rites they had to build underground caves in the form of galleries.

With the catacombs, Christians avoided the custom of cremating the dead. The corpses were placed in the niches and these were closed with tombstones and finally the name of the deceased was engraved.

Photo: Fotolia - Studiodr

Themes in Grotto