Postojna Cave
Formed over millions of years by the Pivka river, the cave was discovered in the 13th century, though never properly explored until the early 1800s. They opened as a tourist attraction in 1819, with Franz I, Emperor of Austria, among the first to visit. Bizarrely, so popular did the caves become that electric lights were fitted in 1884: some years before such technology was first deployed in Ljubljana itself.
Highlights of the cave include the enormous stalactites and stalagmites, and the quite sensational Concert Hall, which can (and does) hold 10,000 people. The acoustics down here are said to be sensational. Note that the temperature of the cave is a chilly 10 degrees Centigrade, so bring a jumper. The caves are also home to olms (or white salamanders), a blind amphibian endemic to the subterranean waters of caves of this part of Europe. The olms can sometimes – though not always – be seen in some of the pools of water as you make your way around the cave. Though blind they are sensitive to flash photography and if you do spot one you should refrain from taking any photos. You will be well and truly told off if you do.
Postojna is about 30 minutes by car from Ljubljana, or you can take any train/bus heading for the coast. For more information see the official website.
Website
www.postojnska-jama.euTel / Fax
+386 (0)5 700 01 00 / +386 (0)5 700 01 30Open
Open every day, all year. From Nov to Mar tours at 10:00, 12:00 and 15:00, in Apr and Oct at 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 14:00, 15:00 and 16:00, in May, Jun and Sep hourly 09:00 - 17:00, in Jul and Aug hourly 09:00 - 18:00
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