Folx-les-Caves is named after the limestone mines (not actually grottes or caves as they are usually known) in the village. The earliest record of mining dates from 1606 and the pillar and stall workings extend to several hectares. The mines were used as shelters during several conflicts and after the French Revolution, monks took refuge here and built two altars underground.
When mining ceased, the space was used for mushroom growing from the 1880s for almost a century. During the 20th century it became the tradittion to hold village dances underground and electric lighting was installed. The dances stopped when the authorities realised there was only a single entrance and no emergency exit.
For many years, the Racourt family opened up the mines for public tours, although some of their commentary was a little fanciful. The site was sold in 2019 and although the new owner planned to continue opening the mines as a tourist attraction, this didn’t happen. It is believed that the insurance assessors deemed the stability of the roof to be too questionable to allow the public to enter.