Onferno Grotte, Limestone cave museum in Gemmano, Italy
Onferno Grotte is a cave system that extends 400 meters (1,300 feet) through gypsum formations, featuring multiple chambers and passages shaped by water erosion. This underground network was created over thousands of years through natural geological processes.
The cave was discovered in 1916 by Lodovico Quarina and was initially used for gypsum extraction until mining operations stopped in the 1950s. After extraction ceased, the site was developed into a visitor attraction.
The name changed from Inferno to Onferno in 1810 when the Bishop of Rimini decided to remove references to demons from the village designation. This shift reflects how the place transformed from a feared location into one appreciated for its natural value.
Visitors should bring warm layers since the cave maintains a consistent cool temperature year-round. The site is easily walkable, but comfortable footwear and care on natural cave surfaces are essential.
The cave system is home to over 8,000 bats from seven different species that thrive in the constant cool environment. This diverse bat colony is one of the main reasons the site holds importance as a natural sanctuary.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
