DID you know that Scotland is home to a "mysterious" man-made cave which continues to "baffle" historians.
Gilmerton Cove, on the outskirts of Edinburgh, appears to have no clear purpose, but has captivated experts from far and wide.
Now a suburb of the capital, Gilmerton was at one time a "thriving" mining community.
See the mysterious Gilmerton Cove and why it still 'baffles' historians
The website adds that the cave features seven chambers and numerous passages and has "baffled" historians since its discovery.
At one time, the entrance to the underground site was underneath a local blacksmith's residence, something which has led to a number of theories.
These include rumours that they were a hiding place for religious refugees or a lair for smugglers.
However, by far one of the most influential theories was that the cove was dug out by a local blacksmith going by the name of George Paterson, according to Undiscovered Scotland.
However, after undertaking a comprehensive survey of Gilmerton Cove and publishing his findings in 1906, F.R. Coles from the National Museum of Antiquities of Scotland suggested that the caverns were dug out well before Paterson's time.
A more recent investigation found that the Edinburgh site had been reused so much over the last three centuries that its origins have been all but lost.
Inside, you'll find what appears to be furnishings carved from the rock, including benches and tables.
While the location in Scotland is closed to the public, according to Tripadvisor, the spot has been praised by past visitors.
Recommended Reading:
-
'Underrated' Scottish island named one of the best places to visit in the UK
-
The Scottish restaurant with 'insanely good food' that is loved by celebrities
-
Scottish 'fairytale' castle that 'inspired Walt Disney' named among world's best
One person said: "We are local to Edinburgh and occasionally visit more unknown places, and Gilmerton Cove doesn’t fail to amaze!"
Another said: "For lovers of the unusual, the mysterious and the intriguing, this must be on your itinerary. Climb down the staircase and explore the beautiful subterranean passages and rooms.
"The questions about why, who and when these places were created cannot be answered, but that just adds to the appeal of visiting here."
