Gourgouthakas, Vertical cave in Lefka Ori mountains, Greece.
Gourgouthakas is a cave in the White Mountains that extends through thin platy limestone and black dolomite layers to considerable depth. The cave system penetrates multiple rock strata and creates a complex underground network as it descends.
French cavers discovered this cave in 1990 and began systematic exploration over the following years. In 1998 they reached the deepest known point and found an underground lake at that level.
The name Gourgouthakas comes from a small rock formation that collects rainwater, traditionally used as a natural watering place for animals. This naming reflects how closely local people connected with the natural features of the mountain landscape.
Reaching the cave requires several hours of hiking from the nearest village, which demands good physical fitness. Visitors should know that only well-equipped and experienced cavers are permitted to explore the interior.
This cave system ranks among the deepest underground structures in the Balkans and connects to several neighboring caves forming a larger cave network. This connection to other cavities makes it especially significant for speleological research.
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