Since the Arab invasion of Spain, there have been cave dwellers in the north eastern area of Andalusia.
In more recent times, and up to the 1950's, it was the native farming communities who used caves for shelter, both for their families and their livestock.
As the economic climate of Spain changed with mass tourism, rural populations began to fall rapidily as people flocked to work on the coast. Many caves were abandoned.

Once again as the needs of the populus have changed, many people, amongst them many British and other northern Europeans, inhibited by cost and climatic conditions in their native countries, are attracted to the idea of escaping from the busier resort areas of Andalusia and integrating into a more rural and peaceful way of life. Cave houses have once again enjoyed a revival in popularity.

Giving a traditional cave a modern make-over has proven to be very successful.
These cave houses have more to offer than ever before. The 21st century Andalusian cave house, once reformed, is equipped with all mod cons.
As well as the necessary water and electricity supplies, many have phone and thus internet connection.

The internal cave temperature is an approximate constant of 18o - 20o C throughout the year, due to the natural insulation of the rock into which it is built. Cave houses are therefore cool in summer and warm in winter. Most caves have a fire place which, depending on the caves location, maybe necessary for the colder months of the year.

Cave houses are generally ecologically sound and the area lends itself perfectly to utilising alternative energy souces, such as solar and wind, leading to even lower maintenance costs.

No two caves are alike. They have individual charm and personality; each cave house is unique in design and most are adaptable to your needs.

The size of caves varies from one bedroom homes to large six to eight bedroom family homes/business opportunties. Many have two or more bathrooms and they often have large kitchens and bodegas (pantries). Caves can be extended into the rock as far as you wish, all building works should be carried out by a legal and qualified builder who will liase with the local town hall if permission is required for the type of works to be carried out.

Additional benefits of considering a cave house are that they are still affordable with relatively low purchase costs.
As with any 're-discovered' way of life their increasing popularity is leading to price increases, so there could not be a better time to invest in a Cave house.