A mere few kilometres from Postojna Cave, the Karst world offers an unforgettable experience in the fairytale world of knights. The impregnable medieval marvel has been perched in the middle of a 123-metre-high cliff for more than 800 years.
Behind the largest cave castle in the world, there is a network of secret tunnels, from where the knight Erazem of Predjama would set out on his plundering expeditions. The Cave under Predjama Castle is the home of a colony of bats.
A World-Famous Cave Castle
Natural elements seamlessly interwoven with manmade ones, the result of man’s work and nature’s creativity has created a pearl of medieval resourcefulness. The world’s largest cave castle, listed as one of the Guinness World Records, tells a picturesque story about the times when comfort had to give way to safety, and when the clatter of weapons would often drown out troubadours’ songs. It is so special and unique, it ranks among the ten most fascinating castles in the world, and so romantic that many couples choose it for their wedding vows.
A Knight for a Day
Take a walk through the castle’s armoury, chapel, kitchen, torture chamber and discover the magic of medieval life. The castle attic boats a wonderful view of the valley, as well as houses a rich collection of plate armours and medieval weapons, including lances, halberds, swords, hammers, bows and crossbows. Without armours, there are no knights, without weapons, there is no fighting.
The cave features a secret tunnel
The cave features a secret tunnel leading out into the open – once an invaluable hiding place. Under the castle, the Karst world formed the Cave under Predjama Castle, which spans four floors and is the second longest Slovenian cave. A section of the cave can be seen as part of the castle tour, while the rest is visited as part of adventure tours.
The Legend about Erazem of Predjama
The romantic legend about the rebellious knight Erazem, who withstood the imperial army’s siege of the castle for over a year, is an indispensable part of the castle’s story. A secret tunnel, a girl’s love and affection, and great artfulness – just about everything needed for a compelling story.
Although he was a brave and almost unbeatable knight, Erazem reportedly died while using a toilet after a betrayal by his servant.
The Second Longest Slovenian Show Cave
The Cave under Predjama Castle is the second longest Slovenian show cave spreading over four floors, which are all interconnected except for Erazem’s Hole and Erazem’s Passage on the top floor. The total length of all the cave parts discovered so far is 14 kilometres. The tourist section is 700 metres long and includes the Stables, the Main Passage, the Cave of Names, the Great Hall, and Fiženca, where the exit to the surface is located.
For Adrenaline Lovers
An excellent choice for more adventurous visitors is a tour of Erazem’s and Eastern Passages, as well as a guided walk to the Wind Hole.
Adventure tours are intended for all visitors who would like to visit the cave sections that are closed to regular cave tours, experience more challenging cave passages, break through water barriers, and follow in the footsteps of cave explorers. The tours take place in small groups, are accompanied by trained and experienced guides, and fall into three difficulty levels. The rental of caving equipment – if required – is included in the price.
Inspiration for Filmmakers
The Predjama Castle has been used as a filming venue for numerous documentaries and feature films. The castle has also mesmerised George R. R. Martin, author of the best-seller The Game of Thrones, and has hosted the Discovery Channel team, who found the castle to be inhabited by some ghosts.
