The Pulpí Geode: Europe’s Largest and the Only Giant Geode You Can Visit
The Pulpí Geode lies 50 m underground in the historic Mina Rica of Pilar de Jaravía, near Pulpí (Almería). Discovered in 1999 and opened to the public in 2019, it is the largest geode in Europe and the only “giant” geode in the world accessible to visitors. Its pure selenite crystals reach up to 2 m in length and glitter like jewels under subdued lighting.
What Is a Geode?
A geode is a natural cavity in rock where mineral-rich water deposited crystals over thousands of years, creating spectacular clusters of stalactites and stalagmites of various minerals.
Why the Pulpí Geode Is Unique
- Dimensions: approx. 8 m long, 1.8 m wide, 1.7 m high.
- Crystal Size: selenite crystals up to 2 m long with exceptional clarity and brilliance.
- Accessibility: unlike other giant geodes (e.g. Naica in Mexico), it can be visited without extreme humidity or temperature protocols.
Discovery and Development
- Found in December 1999 by the Madrid Mineralogical Group.
- Remained hidden and semi-abandoned until 2019, when over 600 tons of sediment were removed to install walkways and lighting.
Visiting the Geode
- Opening Date: since August 5, 2019, by prior reservation.
- Conditions: steady 20 °C; no special suit required.
- Tour: guided through over 300 m of underground galleries.
Highlights of Your Tour
- Small Geodes: of selenite, celestine and barite.
- Rock Formations: folds and speleothems illustrating the site’s geologic history.
- Main Geode: glimpsed through an man-made opening, with crystal edges up to 2 m long.
Preservation Rules
- No entry into the geode interior (except authorized researchers).
- Do not touch or approach the crystals.
- Children under 8 are not permitted.
- Hard-hat required at all times.
In short, the Pulpí Geode is a journey to the heart of the Earth, where crystals tell a 490-million-year story. Book your visit, don your helmet, and be amazed by this unique subterranean cathedral.
How to get there
Decimal: 40.413889°, -3.705278°
DMS: 40°24'50" N, 3°42'19" O
