Grapčeva cave, Natural cave in Humac, Hvar Island, Croatia.
Grapčeva is a limestone cave on Hvar Island with two main chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites throughout. The space contains multiple areas to explore, featuring natural formations in different sizes and shapes.
Excavations starting in 1850 uncovered artifacts from three prehistoric periods reaching back to around 6000 BC. These findings document a long occupation history with different cultural phases at this location.
The cave holds pottery pieces displaying the earliest known boat imagery in Europe, revealing that prehistoric people here had sophisticated seafaring skills. This pottery provides rare evidence of their maritime knowledge and trade connections.
The cave sits on a hillside and requires a short walk to the entrance, making sturdy footwear advisable. Inside, artificial lighting is limited, so visitors should expect darkness and uneven surfaces.
The cave maintains its original lighting conditions, meaning visitors explore the chambers with lanterns and personal flashlights. This authentic experience sets it apart from caves with modern electrical lighting.
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