Virulase koobas, Natural cave in Kata, Estonia
Virulase cave is a natural limestone cave in Kata that winds through narrow passages requiring visitors to crawl through most sections. The system contains multiple corridors carved into the rock, each with tight spaces and low ceilings throughout.
This cave served as a shelter and food storage during periods of mobilization in the region. Located within the Nabala-Tuhala Nature Reserve, it played a practical role for local communities during times of need.
Research expeditions by University of Tartu students in 2003 documented the geological features and fossil records within the limestone cave system.
The entrance appears wide but the ceiling height remains very low throughout, so you will need to crouch and crawl through almost all sections. Wear appropriate clothing and shoes since you will be in direct contact with damp rock and making tight movements through the passages.
The limestone contains numerous fossilized coral specimens from the ancient Oandu geological stage, making it valuable for paleontological research. Scientists continue to study these specimens to understand what marine life looked like during this prehistoric period.
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