Pivka Jama Cave
Littoral-Inner Carniola
Postojna Cave is one of Slovenia's most famous natural wonders and the country's second-longest cave system, extending over 24 kilometers. Formed by the Pivka River, the cave features breathtaking karst formations including stalagmites, stalactites, and draperies resembling folded curtains. Visitors can explore about 5 kilometers of the cave, with 3.5 kilometers accessible via a unique underground electric train, making it one of the world's most famous show caves. The cave also hosts an aquarium exhibiting the olm, the world's largest troglodytic amphibian, endemic to the region. Its rich history dates back to at least the early 13th century, with formal descriptions starting in the 17th century. The cave was among the first to be equipped with electric lighting in 1884 and introduced a cave railway in 1872, enhancing its appeal to tourists. The tour lasts roughly 1.5 hours, traversing illuminated passages at a constant temperature of about 10°C. Postojna Cave remains a top tourist destination due to its natural beauty, historical significance, and unique subterranean experience.
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Tip: The best time to visit Postojna Cave is during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild. Advance ticket purchase is recommended, especially in peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues. Visitors can benefit from discounts for groups, families, and children. Guided tours are available in multiple languages, and comfortable walking shoes are advised due to uneven cave floors. The cave maintains a constant cool temperature, so bringing a light jacket is recommended.
Interesting facts
- •Postojna Cave is the second-longest cave system in Slovenia, stretching over 24 kilometers.
- •It houses the world's only underground post office, established in 1899.
- •The cave is home to the olm, the largest troglodytic amphibian, which famously laid over 50 eggs inside the cave in 2016.
- •Electric lighting was installed in the cave in 1884, before the nearby capital city Ljubljana had electric street lighting.
- •During World War II, nearly 1,000 barrels of aircraft fuel were stored in the cave and later destroyed by partisans, causing a fire that lasted seven days.
History
Postojna Cave's history of human interaction dates back to at least 1213, evidenced by graffiti inside the cave.
It was first scientifically described in the 17th century by Johann Weikhard von Valvasor.
The cave gained prominence in the early 19th century when Archduke Ferdinand visited in 1819, marking its official recognition as a tourist destination.
In 1884, Postojna Cave became one of the first caves worldwide to install electric lighting.
During World War II, the cave was used to store aircraft fuel, which was destroyed by partisans, causing significant damage.
Post-war developments included replacing the gas locomotive with an electric train and expanding public access to about 5.3 kilometers of the cave system.
Place Guide
Underground Train Ride1872
A unique electric train takes visitors through 3.5 kilometers of the cave, offering an easy and scenic way to experience the cave's vast chambers and formations.
Show Cave Passages
The 1.5 kilometers of walkable cave passages are explored on foot with a guide, showcasing stalagmites, stalactites, and draperies formed over millions of years.
Olm Aquarium
An aquarium within the cave displays the olm, an endemic amphibian species adapted to life in darkness, famous for its rare breeding events inside the cave.
Contact
Phone: (05) 720 39 93
