What is Mammoth Cave?

Mammoth Cave is the longest known cave system in the world.

Over 415 miles of its complex passages have been explored and
mapped, and more is discovered every year. Because of its global
significance and unique features, Mammoth Cave National Park was
designated by the United Nations as a World Heritage Site and an
International Biosphere Reserve.

Artifacts document thousands of years of human exploration.
Ancient people mined minerals, had ritual experiences, and were
driven by the same curiosity as tourists today. But our human activities
are threatening the cave and its inhabitants. Every human action – from
saltpetre mining to tourism – has created changes in the cave. Together,
the arts and sciences are helping us to understand these changes and save
Mammoth Cave.