Grotta Zinzulusa, Natural limestone cave in Castro, Italy.
The cave extends 150 meters into the coastal cliff, featuring numerous stalactites hanging from the ceiling like loose threads, which inspired its local name.
The cave received its first written documentation in 1793 through a letter from Castro's bishop Antonio Francesco del Duca, who provided a detailed site description.
Scientists discovered multiple endemic species within the cave, including Typhlocaris salentina and Spelaeomysis bottazzii, contributing to speleological research since 1923.
Guided tours take visitors through the first 150 meters of the cave, with daily access limited to protect the internal ecosystem and geological formations.
The cave contains stratified water layers in its terminal pool called Cocito, creating distinct fresh and brackish water environments for marine life.
Part of: Grotte costiere del Salento
GPS coordinates: 40.01194,18.43056
Latest update: May 27, 2025 11:25
Houses in Italy: karst formations, archaeological sites, and marine cavities
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