Part 12/16:
Despite exhaustive studies, the true purpose of the Long Yu Caves remains elusive. Some hypothesize they served as military strongholds or secret assembly points—hidden spaces for armies or officials. Others suggest they may have been religious sites or royal tombs. The lack of burials, relics, or religious artifacts complicates these theories, as does the notable absence of any mention in historical records.
Another prevailing theory is that they were used for storage, perhaps for grain or valuables. Yet, flooding these chambers would have compromised such uses, and the design does not support simple storage functions. The structural patterns and complexity imply intended purpose beyond mere quarries or storage sites.