Introductory Image

A sign on the outskirts of Coober Pedy, an opal-mining town in South Australia where excessive heat leads townspeople to build their homes in hillside caves. The advantage of underground living is diminished somewhat by the danger of falling. Photo Kevin Trotman.

If you’ve enjoyed the free articles that we offer on our site, please consider subscribing to our nonprofit magazine. You get twelve online issues and unlimited access to all our archives.