Predjama Castle, Monument of national significance in Predjama, Slovenia.
Predjama Castle is a cave fortress in Predjama, Slovenia, that extends across several levels within a vertical limestone wall. The structure combines natural rock formations with built sections and reaches a height of roughly 123 meters (404 feet) above the bottom of the gorge.
The first written mention dates back to 1274, when the fortress was still a simpler Gothic structure. During the 15th century, the knight Erasmus of Lueg used secret tunnel connections to withstand a siege by imperial forces.
The name comes from Slovenian and means in front of the cave, which explains its unusual position against the rock wall. Visitors today see rooms with medieval furniture and wall paintings that show daily life at the time and give the impression of a lived-in refuge.
Anyone visiting should wear sturdy shoes because stairs and passages can be uneven and some areas are narrow and steep. It is worth arriving early in summer or traveling outside the main holiday periods to avoid larger crowds.
The cave behind the fortress extends over four kilometers (2.5 miles) into the rock and once served as an escape tunnel and secret supply route. During winter months, bats use the cool caverns as hibernation quarters, which temporarily closes parts of the complex to visitors.
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