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A Millions-of-Years Time-Lapse of the History of the “Cave of Wonders”

Inspire

A drop of silence buried in the outskirts of Seville is the location of a short film in which nature has the starring role.

In Aracena province in southern Spain are the underground wonders that are the geological world’s most impressive: the “Gruta de las Maravillas,” or cave of wonders, can now be seen in all its splendor thanks to the time-lapse film made by Rafael Asquith and Manuel Benito del Valle.

The word ‘show’ is necessary when referring to the short film La gruta de las maravillas, the premise of which is to show the spectator the history of the cave, from its formation millions of years ago to its accidental discovery in the 19th century.

The filmmakers say that nature has its own language, and as a result narration would spoil the powerful images. However, they are not bereft of some accompaniment: music sometimes helps emphasize the monumental scale of the caves, although sometimes it creates the impression of an exaggerated majesty, in contrast with the quietness and stillness observed inside.

After all, is it not true that, during millions of years the caves were silent and naturally without music, except for the sporadic interruption of an animal or the hypnotizing and discreet echo of the drips falling from the stalactites?

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