Caves of the Aggtelek and Slovakian Karst

     The Aggtelek National Park, is found in the north eastern part of Hungary, was established in 1985 primarily to protect inorganic natural treasures, surface formations and caves. 75% of it is covered with deciduous forest. The clearings scattered about like a mosaic, the areas of rock and the hillsides dotted with rocky outcrops provide a habitat for rare plants, a rich insect world and more than 200 species of local birds. In the relatively small area of the National Park there are more than 200 caves of various sizes.

     The longest cave in the karst area and also in Hungary is the Baradla-cave, the total length of which, with the side branches, is 25 km. A 5,6 km section of this lies in Slovakian territory and is called Domica. The cave was formed in 230 million-year-old middle Triassic limestone. The start of its formation can be put at around 2 million years ago.

The waters of the streams got into the system of cracks and, by dissolving and eroding the limestone, slowly widened the crevices and formed the present passages. The dripping water deposited its lime content, forming stalactites and stalagmites of various size, colour and shape, so decorating the passages. These formations inspired the imagination of the discoverers and visitors, and so some of the formations were given special names, like Dragon’s Head, Tiger, Mother in law’s Tongue, the Hall of Columns and the Hall of Giants.

     Also open to visitors are the hydrologically significant Vass Imre cave, and Béke cave, which is suitable for curing people suffering from respiratory disorders.

Classical and other music concerts are held in the beautiful Concert Hall of the Baradla cave because of its wonderful acoustics, which provides a very special experience for visitors.

     On the surface there are marked study trails. Along the ecology, botanical, and zoological trails visitors can become acquainted with the treasures of the surface of the karst, with the plant-life, habitats, traditional landscape use, village life and work, industrial history and cultural history, as well as the surviving folk customs, traditions and crafts.