Naica

Naica is a census-designated place in Chihuahua, Mexico. It is located in the municipality of Nonoava, at an elevation of 1,750 meters above sea level. As of the 2020 census, the population of Naica was 3,349 inhabitants.

The city was founded in 1725 and was originally known as San Antonio de Naica. It was a major mining center in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The region's geology features numerous caves and mines, which have been exploited for their rich mineral deposits. In particular, Naica is known for its selenite crystal caves, which contain some of the largest and most impressive crystals in the world. One of the caves, known as the Cueva de los Cristales (Caves of the Crystals), features giant selenite crystals that can reach up to 36 feet in length and weigh over 50 tons.

Naica's mining industry declined in the 1950s, when the site was largely abandoned due to flooding and safety concerns. However, in the 2000s, explorers and scientists returned to the site, hoping to study the selenite crystals and the unique formations found within the caves. The caves remain off-limits to the public due to the dangers of falling rocks and the presence of toxic gases. Efforts are being made to preserve the site for future generations of scientists and tourists.

Today, Naica remains a small, rural community with a focus on subsistence farming and livestock production. The town's proximity to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has also led to efforts to promote eco-tourism in the area. Despite its challenges, Naica remains a significant location for geological research and a potential destination for scientists and adventurers.