House without roof, Cave house in Kallmünz, Germany
The House without Roof is a residential structure in Kallmünz where stone walls with door and window openings connect directly to a natural cave in the rock face. The cave itself serves as the rear portion of the dwelling, with only the front facade built from masonry.
The structure dates to a period when people in the Naab Valley used natural caves for shelter and later added masonry facades to create more defined living spaces. This building method emerged from practical needs and was a common solution in Bavarian mountain regions.
The dwelling shows how residents incorporated natural caves into their everyday lives and built around geological features. This approach reflects a long-standing relationship between people and the landscape that shaped local building traditions.
The site sits along Vilsgasse street in the village of Kallmünz and is easily reached on foot while exploring the area. The entrance is accessible from the street, though visitors should take care when approaching depending on the weather or ground conditions.
The dwelling actually has a rear wall made from natural stone formed by the cave itself rather than built from blocks. This creates a rare blend where traditional architecture and natural geology merge seamlessly at this location.
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