Gouffre des Vitarelles, Pit cave in Gramat, France.
Gouffre des Vitarelles is a pit cave system with vast chambers and passages carved through limestone in the Quercy region. The cavity descends to significant depths and contains multiple levels of interconnected passages that form a complex underground network.
The cave entrance was discovered by railway workers in the 1890s, prompting scientific expeditions to explore the system. These early investigations established the foundation for understanding the geological structure of this underground site.
The cave network holds evidence of early human occupation, with Cro-Magnon artifacts found on the surrounding plateau indicating prehistoric settlements.
The cave is accessible only with proper equipment and professional guidance from trained speleologists. Visitors should check locally for tour availability and current access conditions before planning a visit.
An underground river flows through the cave and connects to the Ouysse River network, creating an active water system beneath the surface. This flowing water has continuously shaped the chambers and passages over millennia.
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