Szemlő-hegy Cave, Natural cave in Budapest District II, Hungary.
Szemlő-hegy Cave is a cave system in Budapest that extends through limestone layers with distinctive features along its passages. The walls display layered gypsum crystal formations and pale mineral deposits created by warm underground waters.
The cave was discovered in the early 20th century during construction work and later became a focus of scientific study. This find contributed to understanding how Budapest's thermal system shaped the underground landscape.
The name means 'Spectator Hill' and refers to its position on the hillside overlooking Budapest. You can see how thermal waters have coated the walls with shimmering crystals that catch the light as you walk through.
The cave stays cool year-round, so bring a light jacket and wear sturdy shoes with good grip. The floors can be slippery in places, so move carefully and hold the railings where they are available.
This cave is part of a network of interconnected caverns beneath Budapest linked to thermal springs. Walking through it, you discover one piece of a hidden underground world shaped entirely by the city's geothermal activity.
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