How Deep is Cathedral Cave?
The entrance to Cathedral Cave is a mere 5 meters below the surface, and the cavern extends to a maximum depth of 18 meters. Divers will find themselves in a vast domed vault with a ceiling approximately 15 meters above the water level, creating a massive air pocket. This unique structure is why it’s often referred to as The Blue Dome.
The Blue Dome Experience
Why The Blue Dome?
Upon surfacing in the air pocket, divers are treated to a view that resembles a large swimming pool, with mesmerizing blue reflections on the crystal-clear water. This effect is due to the close proximity of the dome to the entrance and exit of Cathedral Cave.
Is it Safe to Breathe the Surface Air Inside This Dome?
Yes, it is safe to breathe the surface air inside the dome. A crack in the cliff wall allows light and fresh air to penetrate the dome, ensuring a safe and refreshing experience for divers.
Unique Features Inside Cathedral Cave
Hidden Shafts and Historical Secrets
At the back of the cave, where the ceiling is only a meter above the water surface, divers can find two shafts hewn from the rock. These shafts go straight up to the top of the cliff, and halfway up, divers can see slabs placed by farmers nearly 250 years ago.
The Ingenious Salt-Pan Scheme
In 1773, Stefano, a Sicilian clockmaker, invested his savings in salt-pans on top of an underwater cave. He had two shafts dug down to sea level at the back of Cathedral Cave to haul water up to fill the salt-pans. This innovative idea allowed Stefano to harvest several crops of salt during the first summer.
The Downfall: Geysers and Ruined Crops
When autumn arrived, the sea rushed into the cave, creating geysers that shot water from the shafts. These plumes of water, rising 20 meters, spread inland as a fine mist, damaging vegetation and crops within a three-kilometer radius. This event led to the ruin of Stefano, who faced demands for compensation from angry farmers, eventually bankrupting him.
Eyewitness Accounts
In 1777, Jean Houel, a French traveler, witnessed the water plumes and wrote: “The horrifying noise made by each of these explosions re-echoed both inside and outside the cave, and was altogether like cannons of different caliber being discharged in rapid succession.”
Discover More: Gozo’s Top Dive Sites
Cathedral Cave is a must-visit dive site in Gozo, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and thrilling diving experiences. From the breathtaking Blue Dome to the fascinating history of Stefano’s salt-pans, this underwater marvel reveals secrets that captivate and inspire divers from around the world. Embark on your adventure and uncover the wonders of Cathedral Cave for yourself!
Be sure to check out other incredible locations like Reqqa Point, the Blue Hole, and the Billinghurst Cave. These sites offer diverse underwater landscapes and unforgettable diving experiences. For more information, visit our Best Dive Sites in Gozo Malta.
