Algar do Carvão
Terceira, Azores

Descending the stairs into the depths of a cave at the top of Terciera Island, Azores, we were escorted by water sounds; drips, trickles, hollow sounds, and an occasional drop falling from far overhead, starling awareness. Concrete stairs and viewing platforms were wet, the hand rail made of stainless steel. At the bottom of the steep incline was a lake. Overhead a cavernous vault of space, 3,000 years old, eerie in its volcanic beauty. The entire scene made visible by electric lights strategically placed, otherwise darkness complete and total.