Hermit caves of Szentkút, Hermit cave complex in Mátraverebély, Hungary
The Hermit caves of Szentkút form a network of chambers carved from soft sandstone into the mountainside, serving as dwellings and worship spaces for religious residents. The complex spreads across multiple levels with tunnels connecting the various rooms and adjacent areas of the larger pilgrimage site.
Religious hermits first settled in this cave system during the 13th century, maintaining a continuous presence as a spiritual refuge for centuries. The community ended around 1767 when the final resident departed, bringing the era of inhabited monastic life to a close.
The caves and spring draw pilgrims who connect this place to medieval Hungarian spirituality and local faith traditions. People come to experience the spaces where hermits once lived and to visit the holy water source nearby.
The caves are reached by following a marked hiking path that starts near the nearby priory building and is easy to walk. Entry is free year-round, and shaded seating areas along the route offer places to rest with views over the surrounding valley.
A spring emerges at this location that, according to local tradition, originated when a medieval Hungarian king jumped across a deep ravine on horseback. The legend associates this water source with Saint Ladislaus and draws visitors seeking the story behind this spiritual landmark.
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