Baumann's Cave, Show cave in Rübeland, Oberharz am Brocken, Germany
Baumann's Cave is a limestone cave system in the region that extends through multiple chambers. The spaces contain numerous stalactites, stalagmites, and mineral deposits formed over millions of years.
The cave has been visited since the Stone Age. The story that miner Friedrich Baumann discovered it in 1536 is a legend; the date was invented in the 1930s during the Nazi era to create a jubilee. Regular guided tours began in 1649, when Valentin Wagner was granted the privilege to lead visitors.
The cave's largest chamber, the Goethesaal, covers about 2,500 m² and holds two stages with seating for up to 300 spectators. It hosts concerts and, during school holidays, occasional plays. Since 2000 couples can marry there, as the hall is a branch of the local registry office. Until 1928 it was called Tanzsaal (dance hall).
The guided tour lasts about 50 minutes and requires climbing approximately 300 steps through the cave. The temperature stays constantly cool, so bring a jacket and wear sturdy shoes.
The cave is known for the many bones of cave bears found inside it. The oldest known plan of the cave dates from 1665, and the oldest depiction of its interior was made by Matthäus Merian in 1654.
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