Onferno Grotte, Limestone cave museum in Gemmano, Italy
Description
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.
History
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.
Culture
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.
Practical
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.
Did you know?
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.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Gemmano).
Monte Titano
10 km
Montale
9.8 km
De La Fratta
10.1 km
Rocca malatestiana
10.3 km
Rocca Malatestiana di Montecolombo
5.3 km
Museum of Saludecio and Blessed Amato
9.8 km
Madonna di Carbognano
5 km
Sammarinese Museum of Ancient Arms
10.1 km
San Biagio
9.8 km
Chiesa di San Paolo apostolo
6.9 km
Fortress of Sasso di Montefeltro
3.6 km
Rocca Malatestiana
5.6 km
Chiesa dell'Ospedale della Misericordia
5.5 km
Teatro Rosaspina
5.2 km
Teatro Ronci
9.1 km
Torre Portaia
10.2 km
Osservatorio Monte San Lorenzo
5.9 km
Chiesa della Pace e Museo della Linea Gotica
6.3 km
Teatro comunale Malatesta
5.5 km
Chiesa dei Cappuccini
5.5 km
Torre comunale
9.8 km
Pozzo medievale
9.9 km
Museo Etnografico Valliano
6.9 km
San Paolo
5.6 km
Loggiato
10.3 km
Torre civica
10.3 km
Arena Filippo Raciti
5.7 km
Castello di Auditore
6.1 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes