ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on how karst forms can satisfy the urge to explore the unknown for a wide range of natural abilities, why the aesthetic values of karst forms are worth conserving, and on the explanations for their curious shapes. When early hominids’ technology had advanced enough to provide burning resinous branches, and later stone lamps burning oil or fat, they could probe further into caves to where their famous cave paintings now remain. Exploration with equipment in the form of boats, ropes and rigid ladders began in the sixteenth century. From the 1830s onwards, cave exploration increased on a large scale, following the Rev. J. Buckland’s sensational discovery of ancient animal remains in East Yorkshire. Concern for features of geomorphological and geological interest has increased in recent decades because of greater pressure on our environment. With caves hidden from view, and pavements comparatively rare, it is basin- or funnel-shaped enclosed depressions which are the most characteristic landform of karstlands.
