Overview:

Barton Creek Cave is a natural limestone cave formation located within the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve in Belize. It is one of the longest cave systems known in Central America, with known passages extending for approximately 7 miles (11 km). The reserve itself covers an area of 5,000 acres and is one of the largest protected areas in Belize. It is home to over 200 species of plants and animals, including several endangered species. The cave system features several chambers, galleries, and halls filled with interesting formations such as limestone stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and draperies. There is also a series of underground pools in some of the chambers. The cave is strictly regulated by the government to ensure its protection, as visitors are only allowed to enter with a licensed guide. Barton Creek Cave is a popular tourist attraction in Belize and an ideal site for scientific exploration and research. Visitors can explore the caves and view the stunning formations while learning about the fauna and flora that call the area home. The cave also provides an important refuge and habitat for several species of bats. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Belize
Prominent Features:

1. Stalactites and Stalagmites: Stalactites and stalagmites are the most prominent features of the Barton Creek Cave Formation. They are formed of minerals which dripped from the ceiling of the cave and solidifed over time. 2. Rotating Columns: Rotating columns are also a prominent feature in the Barton Creek Cave Formation. These large columns formed where two streams of water from the ceiling intersected. Over time, these columns combined to form a single rotating column. 3. Fossils: Fossils are also found in the Barton Creek Cave Formation. These fossils are remains of prehistoric animals including mammals, birds and reptiles. 4. Cenotes: The Barton Creek cave formation also features a variety of cenotes. These cenotes were used by the ancient Mayan civilizations as a source of fresh water. With each cenote having its own unique features, these cenotes are equally significant to the Barton Creek Cave Formation. 5. Limestone Formations: The Barton Creek Cave Formation is a vast limestone formation. Over time, calcite crystals have deposited in the ceiling and walls of this cave formation due to the action of calcite bearing water. This has led to the formation of unique limestone formations in the Barton Creek Cave Formation. This national monument of Belize portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Barton Creek Cave is a fascinating cave located in the Cayo District of Belize. It is a part of the Barton Creek Cave System, which is the longest known cave in Belize, and its formation is believed to span around a time period of more than one million years. The formation of the cave is believed to have begun during the late Oligocene period, when the sea level started to rise significantly, which resulted in the formation of a fault line that caused the limestone rock to start breaking apart. Further, during the Pliocene period, the tectonic changes caused sea levels to retreat again, resulting in the exposure of the cave. Subsequent to the exposure, erosion began, which created deeper and larger chambers in the cave. Over time, Barton Creek Cave became drier, which allowed rainwater to fill the crevices in the stone, and eventually form underground rivers and pools. This is why the cave is known for its underground water features, which include multiple pools and rivers, as well as cascading waterfalls. In addition, the calcification of the limestone rock resulted in the development of stalactites and stalagmites, which slowly created intricate formations of subterranean beauty. This is what makes Barton Creek Cave one of the most notable caves in the country. You must visit one of these historical places in Belize on your Belize tour

Interesting facts:

1. Barton Creek Cave is believed to be at least 5 million years old and one of the longest cave systems in Belize. 2. It is estimated to be over 40 miles long and descend to a depth of nearly 1,000 feet. 3. This cave system is populated with an incredible variety of wildlife such as bats, birds, fish, and large cats. 4. It boasts an array of crystal calcite swim-throughs, limestone stalactites, stalagmites, and impressive chambers. 5. Barton Creek Cave is a major archaeological site, with many artifacts being discovered and studied from ancient Mayan civilization and pre-Mayan societies. 6. Ancient artifacts such as vase fragments, pottery, ceramic pieces, and human remains have been uncovered in the cave. 7. Both local and international explorers have since traversed its paths, as its size and grandiosity continues to fuel curiosity and discovery. 8. The Barton Creek Cave has also been used for ceremonial purposes by both the ancient Mayan and pre-Mayan cultures. 9. Today, the cave is largely protected against human damage, as it is now part of the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. 10. Visitors can view the amazing formations, observe wildlife, and camp alongside the nearby river. Visit one of the famous monuments of Belize with your friends and family.