Magura is one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Bulgaria and its total length is over 2,5 km. It is located in Northwestern Bulgaria, at 17 km. from Belogradchik and according to geological studies it has existed for over 15 million years.
It is one of the richest in different shapes and sizes - stalactites, stalagmites, stalactones, sinter pockets, cave pearls, cave milk. Here is the Big Stalacton with a height above 20 m and a diameter of the base 4 m. The fallen pine is the largest stalagmite in the studied caves in Bulgaria - it is longer than 11 m and has a diameter above 6 m.
In one of the many halls are found many prehistoric drawings carved into the rock and painted with bats guano (manure). The figures depict female silhouettes, dancing and hunting men, masked people, animals, plants, tools, signs and more. Most of the drawings are from the time of the matriarch and women are apparently larger, while men are schematically drawn.
In the I - IV century, when the area was within the Roman Empire, the cave was probably used for overnight slaves. Sacrifices were also made there. In the alcove, in one of the halls, a female headless skeleton was found, on whose hands there were gold bracelets shaped like two snakes, bitten by their tails.
The Magura is also home to the earliest solar calendar in Europe, dating back to the Neolithic era. It is painted on the walls and marks the winter and summer solstice, the spring and summer equinox, and more.
The Magura Wine Cellar was created in the area during 1967, which uses some of the cave's halls for maturing selected wines and champagne.
Between 1974 and 75, parts of Magura have been turned into a temporary sanatorium for the treatment of patients with bronchial asthma. The good results from this experiment were due to the favorable conditions here - absolutely clean air, no allergens, year-round constant temperature of 11о-12о , good ionization and humidity.
Today, Magura is one of the most well-groomed caves in Bulgaria, with lighting, paths and safety equipment. Since 1960, it has been declared a natural landmark, cultural monument and national tourist site, and is visited annually by over 65 thousands of lovers of its underground beauty.
Very interesting writing :) Some time ago I was thinking of visiting Magura, but I was a little hesitant. After this post I read I think I will do it soon :)
Congratulations on the interesting reading!
Eve