Szent István Cave
Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén
Szent István Cave, located in the Bükk National Park near Lillafüred, Hungary, is one of the country's most beautifully developed dripstone caves. Formed in Upper Triassic limestone, the cave features a variety of remarkable stalactite and stalagmite formations, including the notable 'Mamutfogsor' (Mammoth's Tooth) and the richly decorated 'Oszlopok csarnoka' (Hall of Columns). The cave extends over 1,500 meters with a vertical range of 101 meters, although only a 170-meter section is open to visitors. It contains large chambers such as the 'Gizella királynő-csarnok' (Queen Gizella Hall) with an impressive 'Óriás-vízesés' (Giant Waterfall) formation. The cave's cool, clean air with nearly 100% humidity has made part of it a designated medicinal cave since 1991, used for respiratory therapy. Discovered in 1913 after a dog fell into its 15-meter deep natural entrance, it was developed for tourism starting in 1927 and opened to the public in 1931. The cave's lighting system has been modernized to prevent moss growth caused by earlier illumination. Visitors can explore well-maintained paths with steps and railings, experiencing the cave's geological wonders and tranquil atmosphere.
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Astuce: Visit during the warmer months from April to September when tours run daily from 9:00 to 17:00. Dress warmly as the cave temperature remains around 10°C year-round. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for groups. Visitors with the Miskolc Pass should register at the ticket office at least 10 minutes before the tour starts. From January 2025, daily relaxation and regeneration programs are offered in the cave's Black Hall, requiring prior registration via email or phone.
Faits intéressants
- •The cave was discovered after a dog fell into its 15-meter deep natural entrance in 1913.
- •It is the longest developed cave in the Bükk Mountains with over 1,500 meters of passages.
- •Part of the cave was declared a medicinal cave in 1991 due to its clean, cool, and humid air beneficial for respiratory ailments.
- •The cave features a unique dripstone formation called 'Mamutfogsor' (Mammoth's Tooth).
- •Flooding events in 1958 and 1974 caused water to burst out of the cave entrance onto the road.
- •The cave's lighting was modernized to prevent moss growth caused by earlier illumination systems.
Histoire
The cave was discovered in 1913 when a dog fell into its natural entrance, leading to its exploration by Ottokár Kadić.
Development for tourism began in 1927 under Ferenc Révay's guidance, with the installation of lighting and pathways.
It officially opened to visitors in August 1931.
Over the decades, the cave has been recognized for its geological beauty and therapeutic air quality, achieving protected status and being declared a medicinal cave in 1991.
Its name honors King Stephen I of Hungary, reflecting its cultural significance.
Guide du lieu
Mamutfogsor (Mammoth's Tooth)
A striking dripstone formation resembling a mammoth's tooth, showcasing the cave's unique mineral deposits and speleothem development.
Oszlopok csarnoka (Hall of Columns)
The richest section of the cave in terms of dripstone columns, offering stunning views of stalactites and stalagmites that have merged to form pillars.
Gizella királynő-csarnok (Queen Gizella Hall)
The largest chamber in the cave, featuring the 'Óriás-vízesés' (Giant Waterfall) and fossilized water flow formations, exemplifying the cave's grandeur.
Fekete-terem (Black Hall)1988
A specially designated medicinal section of the cave with a stable microclimate, used for respiratory therapy and relaxation programs.
Contact
Téléphone: (06 46) 334 130