Zolushka/Emil Racoviță cave, Gypsum cave in Briceni District, Moldova.
Zolushka/Emil Racoviță cave is a gypsum karst system stretching approximately 91 kilometers with mapped passages and numerous subterranean lakes. These water bodies maintain constant year-round temperatures and hold mineral-enriched waters throughout the complex.
Scientific study of the cave began in 1946, with the current main entrance exposed in 1977 during a blasting operation at a gypsum quarry.
The cave's original name Zolushka refers to Cinderella in Russian folklore, given by its discoverers before being renamed in 1991 to honor Romanian biospeleologist Emil Racovita.
Proper footwear like rubber boots and waterproof clothing are essential, along with a helmet and flashlight for passage through wet corridors. The consistently damp environment and intricate layout require an experienced guide and thorough preparation.
Clay figurines created by speleologists serve as directional markers throughout the labyrinthine passage network, helping explorers navigate the intricate structure.
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