The Catacomb Caves
One of the more unusual features of Avalon is the subterranean cave network that runs through a thick vein of limestone snaking through the heart of bedrock that is, otherwise, sandstone.
These catacombs serve as sacred resting places, where the honored dead are preserved in a state of near-perpetual rest. The ancient stone walls, imbued with the essence of the earth, guard their secrets well, ensuring that the stories of those who have passed remain untold, yet ever-present, in the silent whispers of the cave.
Geography
This geological oddity runs right under the center of the village, and the original mission chapel -- what is now the Welcome Center and Village Meeting Hall -- was built atop the natural structure. This enabled the Jesuit missionaries to begin planning for the inevitable: catacombs to house their earthly remains when their time in service was finally called to end.
Climate
Limestone caves, with their cool, stable temperatures and high humidity, create an environment that is both mysterious and practical. These caves typically maintain a constant temperature close to the average surface temperature of their location, thanks to the insulating properties of the surrounding rock. The humidity levels inside these caves are often near 100%, creating a damp atmosphere that can slow the decomposition of organic materials.
When these natural formations are transformed into catacombs, the climate within limestone caves offers several benefits for the preservation of human remains. The consistent temperature prevents the rapid fluctuations that can accelerate decay, while the high humidity helps to maintain the integrity of the remains by reducing desiccation. Additionally, the limestone itself can act as a natural barrier against external contaminants, further protecting the interred bodies.
History
Even before the mission walls were complete, the renovations of the caves began. They were smoothed, widened, and where necessary, reinforced by the mathematically inclined Jesuit Brother Jean-Paul, a learned mining engineer of the time. Loculi -- the carved niches where bodies lie -- were added to the walls, and the Cataomb Caves were born.
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