Kaiser-Max-Grotte, Mountain grotto in Zirl, Austria.
Kaiser-Max-Grotte is a cave set into the Martinswand cliff face overlooking the village. The interior is spacious and holds a wooden cross along with sculptures placed by visitors and pilgrims over time.
The grotto gained fame from an event in 1484 when Emperor Maximilian I. became stuck there during a hunting trip. A local farmer eventually helped him escape from his predicament.
The grotto contains a commemorative sculpture depicting Emperor Maximilian with a crossbow, marking the location of his legendary rescue.
The path to the grotto begins at the parking area in Zirl and climbs steeply uphill. Plan for about one hour of walking and wear sturdy shoes, as sections of the trail can be demanding.
The cave opening is remarkably large at about 46 meters wide and 19 meters tall for grottoes in this region. These dimensions make it one of the most spacious freely accessible caves in the Tyrolean Alps.
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