Coober Pedy is a unique town in South Australia, renowned for its opal mining and distinctive underground residences. Established in 1915, it quickly became known as the "Opal Capital of the World" due to its abundant opal deposits. The harsh desert climate, with extremely high temperatures, led residents to build their homes, known as "dugouts," below ground to escape the heat. This fascinating town also features underground shops, churches, and even hotels, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors.
Yes, there is a Serbian Orthodox Church in Coober Pedy, Australia. Known as the "St. Elijah" Church, it is unique because it is built underground, reflecting the town's mining heritage and its adaptation to the extreme desert climate. The church was constructed by Serbian immigrants who came to Coober Pedy in search of opal and decided to create a place of worship that would also serve as a cool and serene refuge from the harsh surface conditions.
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