New Athos Cave
Abkhazia
New Athos Cave, also known as Novoafonskaya or New Afon Cave, is a spectacular karst cave located on the slope of the Iverian Mountain near the city of New Athos in Abkhazia, Georgia. The cave was historically known as the "Bottomless Pit" due to its immense depth and mystery. It was first explored in 1961 by a team of four explorers: Zurab Tatashidze, Arsen Okrojanashvili, Boris Gergedava, and Givi Smyr. The cave system comprises nine major cavities, each featuring impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique geological formations. Since 1975, New Athos Cave has been a major tourist attraction, notable for its own underground railway that transports visitors through the cave, making the exploration accessible and memorable. The cave's natural beauty and the engineering marvel of its railway system make it a unique destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Its vast chambers, including notable spots such as "The Skeleton," showcase the cave's geological and historical significance. The cave is an excellent example of karst topography and offers a fascinating glimpse into subterranean natural wonders.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing due to the cave's cool temperatures. The best time to visit is during the warmer months to enjoy the surrounding area, but the cave itself maintains a constant climate year-round. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid long waits. Guided tours are available and enhance the experience by providing detailed information about the cave's geology and history. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Photography is allowed but without flash to preserve the cave's delicate environment.
Interesting facts
- •The cave features nine major cavities with unique geological formations.
- •It has its own underground railway, one of the few in the world inside a cave.
- •The cave was explored for the first time in 1961 by a team of four explorers.
- •The site was historically known as the "Bottomless Pit" due to its depth and mystery.
History
The New Athos Cave was known for centuries as the "Bottomless Pit" before its exploration in 1961 by Zurab Tatashidze and his team.
The cave's development into a tourist site began in the 1970s, with the installation of an underground railway in 1975, which greatly improved accessibility.
Over the decades, the cave has been preserved and maintained as a natural monument, attracting thousands of visitors annually.
Its history reflects both natural geological processes and human efforts to make subterranean wonders accessible to the public.
Place Guide
The Skeleton Chamber
One of the cave's most famous chambers, named for the skeletal-shaped formations found inside. It showcases impressive stalactites and stalagmites creating a dramatic underground landscape.
Underground Railway1975
A unique narrow-gauge railway that transports visitors through the cave's vast chambers, making exploration easier and more comfortable. The railway is a rare feature among caves worldwide.
Contact
Phone: 598 46 53 65
