Description
Ajdovska Cave near Nemška vas is one of the few larger caves in the isolated karst of the Krško Hills. It opens on a steep slope of the Podjama valley. A small stream occasionally springs below the cave. The valley floor is covered by a moist meadow, while the slopes are cloaked in black locust forest and mixed oak‑beech woods. The cave and its surroundings form a natural oasis in the wine‑growing hills.
As an underground cave, Ajdovska Cave is a geomorphological natural asset of national importance. The surrounding karst field with springs, sinkholes and resurgence is a local natural asset. The cave is also one of Slovenia’s largest maternity roosts for bats. For this reason, it is part of the Natura 2000 network as a zoological natural asset of national importance.
Ajdovska Cave is a major cultural monument. Remains of the rare cave bear Ursus ladinicus, dated to 51,000–43,000 BC, were found here. Traces of Stone Age hunters are also present. Even more important Neolithic finds confirm Slovenia’s oldest necropolis and a sacred site with evidence of the first intentional interventions in the cave. Its form and surroundings still inspire mystical connections today.
Between April 15 and October 15, the cave is closed to protect bats. During this period, visitors can explore its surroundings – karst features, endangered species, forests, healing springs and the wine landscape. From October 15 to April 15, visits inside the cave are possible only by prior arrangement.
For more information, visit the official Ajdovska Cave website.
