As one of the typical cave complexes of the midland region, Am Phu Cave is located in Linh Son ward.
The Underworld Cave, also known as the Earth Cave, is located within the Linh Son cave complex, hidden deep in Mount Hot. The entire area comprises two natural caves, the Heaven Cave and the Earth Cave, extending deep into the mountain. Covering an area of approximately 1,000 square meters, they share a single main entrance about 5 meters wide. From the entrance, turning left leads to the Heaven Cave, a spacious and brightly lit space highlighted by diverse natural stalactite formations. Several Buddha statues are placed in various locations, creating a solemn yet mysterious atmosphere. Conversely, turning right leads to the Earth Cave, known as the "path to the underworld." The Earth Cave is larger than the Heaven Cave, covering approximately 480 square meters. The cave floor is flat and spacious, gradually sloping downwards to form large resting platforms.
The interior of Địa Cave is quiet and deserted; the deeper you go, the darker it becomes, its depths seemingly endless. The sounds of falling rocks and dripping water echo in the confined space, creating a sense of reverberation from another world . According to locals, very few people, even locals, dare to venture deep into Địa Cave because the dark, damp, and silent interior is shrouded in mystery, making anyone who enters feel eerie and shiver.
“In the past, the cave was full of bats. When you entered, the bats would fly around wildly, the sound of their wings flapping and their chirping echoing overhead, making the already gloomy atmosphere even more eerie. Even those standing inside felt a chill down their spines. Locals spread stories about the cave being incredibly deep and dark, with no end in sight. Even flashlight beams couldn't reach the bottom. Many believed it was a gateway to the underworld,” a local resident said.
Beyond its mystical allure, Linh Son Cave also preserves numerous cultural values and historical traces spanning hundreds of years. The interwoven layers of information, a blend of historical documents and legends, create a unique depth, making it not just a tourist attraction but also a space rich in historical significance.
According to some documents, the Linh Son cave area was once a refuge for the Ly Dynasty army during their resistance against the Song Dynasty. After battles, many soldiers died in this mountainous region, leaving behind traces and stories that have been passed down through generations of local people. From these losses, spiritual stories gradually formed and spread.
Legend has it that Empress Y Lan, while passing through the area, ordered the local people to build a shrine to the fallen soldiers, contributing to the religious space that still exists today in the Linh Son cave area. Beyond legend, the area also preserves historical evidence; on the cliff face in front of the cave entrance, an ancient stele with over 200 Chinese characters has been discovered, recording the cave's restoration during the Le Dynasty, along with exquisite carvings.
Previously, information from the Linh Son Ward People's Committee indicated that the cave complex had been recognized as a national historical site since 1999. This area possesses significant historical and cultural value, spanning hundreds of years, and requires protection and preservation. According to local leaders, Linh Son Cave has largely retained its pristine state and has been minimally affected. However, natural weathering over time has caused some areas within the cave to show signs of erosion, impacting the surface of the stalactites and the natural structure.
Source: https://baovanhoa.vn/van-hoa/kham-pha-cong-dan-vao-dia-phu-linh-son-216614.html
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