Uholka-Shyrokyi Luh primeval beech forest

The forest extends across 11,860 hectares of limestone formations, featuring diverse karst caves and European beech trees reaching subalpine elevations of 1,501 meters.

The protection of this forest began in 1920, leading to its recognition as part of the UNESCO World Heritage network of ancient beech forests in 2007.

Archaeological discoveries in the surrounding caves reveal evidence of Paleolithic human settlements, connecting modern visitors to ancient inhabitants of the region.

Two ecological trails, Mala Uholka and Velyka Uholka, guide visitors through the forest to notable karst formations and caves containing archaeological findings.

This protected area contains the largest continuous primeval beech forest globally, maintaining natural processes uninterrupted since the last Ice Age.

Location: Zakarpattia Oblast

Part of: Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe - extension

GPS coordinates: 48.26083,23.74167

Latest update: March 3, 2025 17:37