Frasassi Caves, Show cave system in Genga, Italy
Description
The Frasassi Caves form a 5000-meter network of chambers and passages running through limestone formations in Genga, displaying different mineral deposits and geological structures. Stalactites hang from the ceilings while stalagmites rise from the floors, and some areas contain underground streams that continue to shape the rock.
History
A team of speleologists from Ancona led by Giancarlo Cappanera discovered this underground system on September 25, 1971, after it had remained hidden for millions of years. Three years later, access was organized for the public, and tourists have visited the chambers through guided routes ever since.
Culture
The name Frasassi comes from frassum, a medieval Latin word describing shattered or broken rock that refers to the outer gorge. Visitors see the rocky valley and steep walls outside before descending through artificial tunnels that provide access to the underground network.
Practical
The system maintains a temperature of 14 degrees Celsius (57 degrees Fahrenheit) year-round, so visitors should bring warm clothing even when it is summer outside. The routes pass through artificially lit tunnels and chambers, and sturdy footwear helps when walking on the damp surfaces.
Did you know?
Scientists have conducted chronobiology experiments here, where individuals stayed underground for extended periods to study human biological rhythms without natural daylight. This research used the constant environment of the caves and the absence of external time cues.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Genga).
Italy holds some of Europe's most remarkable underground and seaside dwellings formed by nature over thousands of years. These homes exist in caves carved from limestone, hidden within cliffs overlooking the sea, and tucked into ancient rock shelters where people once sought protection and safety....
The Marche region in central Italy stretches between the Apennines and the Adriatic Sea. This collection brings together places that let you explore the area: towns of art like Urbino and Ascoli Piceno, natural parks in the mountains, underground caves at Frasassi, seaside resorts along the coast,...
Sanctuary of Santa Maria infra Saxa
27 m
San Vittore alle Chiuse
4.2 km
Parco naturale regionale della Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi
6 m
Tempio neoclassico detto del Valadier
27 m
Museo della miniera di zolfo di Cabernardi
10.2 km
Historical cartotheque of the Marche
6.7 km
Teatro Gentile da Fabriano
10.8 km
Church of Santa Lucia
6.7 km
Collegiata di San Medardo
7.8 km
Eremo di Grottafucile
5.2 km
Museo speleo paleontologico e archeologico di Genga
4.2 km
Abbazia di San Michele Arcangelo
8.9 km
State Archaeological Museum of Arcevia
7.7 km
Sant'Agostino
10.4 km
Teatro Misa
7.6 km
Church of san Quirico
6.7 km
Church of San Paterniano
10.8 km
Parco archeologico di Sentinum
6.9 km
Rocca Albornoz
6.4 km
Romualdo Sassi public library
10.8 km
Castello di Castiglioni
10.5 km
Frasassi wood
5.2 km
Castello di Caudino
10.6 km
Castello di Avacelli
6 km
Chiesa di Sant'Agata
10.6 km
Oratorio della Carità
10.8 km
Monte La Croce
10.7 km
Santa Maria del Gonfalone
10.8 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes