Baradla cave, Limestone cave system in Aggtelek National Park, Hungary and Slovak Karst, Slovakia
Baradla Cave is a limestone cave system spanning about 25 kilometers across the border between Hungary and Slovakia. The interior contains numerous stalactites and stalagmites formed over millennia in the rock, along with underground streams and lakes.
The cave was first documented in written records during the 16th century. Systematic exploration and mapping in the 18th century led to its development as a show cave for visitors.
The name derives from local language meaning 'hole' or 'opening'. Visitors today walk on pathways and cross bridges constructed since the early 1800s to safely explore the interior.
Visitors can enter the cave through several entrances located on both the Hungarian and Slovak sides of the cave system. Expert guides lead tours of varying lengths depending on visitor interest and fitness level.
The cave system is home to more than 500 species of cave-dwelling animals, including 21 bat species adapted to living in darkness. This animal community makes it one of the most biologically diverse underground habitats in Europe.
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