#shell grotto

The Grotto Pavilion, Moscow's Kuskovo Estate, Russia,

The architectural and landscape ensemble of Count Sheremetev’s favourite estate was developed in 1750–1770, when owning a French-style formal park was the brightest demonstration of wealth and high position for Russian aristocracy.

The stone-made structure of the Shell Grotto was designed by a serf architect Fyodor Argunov and building took about five years — from 1756 till 1761. The interior was to represent the combination of stone and water elements.

In 1761, Sheremetev invited Johannes Focht, a 'grotto specialist', to decorate his pavilion. His work took almost three times as long as the grotto's construction and was completed by 1775.

Underground caves lined with millions of shells, and no one knows who built them.

The Shell Grotto in Margate, Kent, England, stands as one of history’s most baffling mysteries.

Discovered in 1835, this hidden passageway is adorned with over 4.6 million meticulously arranged shells, forming elaborate mosaics that cover every inch of its walls and ceilings.

The designs are precise and intricate, depicting symbols, patterns and figures whose meanings remain shrouded in mystery.

What makes the grotto so compelling is that no one knows who created it, when, or why.

Some speculate it dates back to ancient times, possibly as far as the Roman or Phoenician period, while others believe it was constructed in the medieval era or even the 18th or 19th century by an eccentric individual.

Was it a secret temple, a meeting place for a hidden society, or a mysterious art project?

Theories are abundant, but definitive answers are nonexistent.

Discovered in 1835, this underground cave is lined with millions of shells.

Shell Grotto in Margate, Kent