The cave of Vilenica is probably the eldest show cave of Europe. Back in 1633, Count Petazzi, the owner of the cave alienated its administration to the rectorate of Lokev. Until middle of the previous century it was said to be the most beautiful, largest and best visited classic karst cave. Several circumstances came to benefit: the nicest, inner parts of the cave of Postojna haven’t been discovered at that time and the cave always was easily accessible and walkable, making constructional works unnecessary. On top of that its lay at the coast was in comfortable reach of Triest, making it an attractive target for excursions of seamen and cruisers.

The phantasy of visitors has always been inspired by the cave, so it was said to be the home of good fairies. The complete length of the cave walks sum up to 1,300 m, a third of which can be visited on a one hour tour. The walkway is curling downwards, deeper and deeper, opening new sights after every bending, sometimes narrow, sometimes wide finally ending in an overwhelming hall. Back at the scientists shack, packed with impressions and pictures, we’re looking at the lovely surroundings at the entrance. It’s a shame that it’s opened only once a week, on Sundays (3:00 pm), since it has been outrun by the more popular neighbouring caves.


Jamarsko društvo Sežana,
Partizanska 61, 6210 Sežana
Telefon: 00 386 5 734 42 59
e-Mail: vilenica(at)siol.net

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