Jama Vilenica Cave

Vilenica Cave, also known as Vilenica Cave near Lokev, is Europe's oldest display cave. The cave's first visitors were reported in 1633. On the Karst Plateau in southwestern Slovenia, it is located near to the village of Lokev in the municipality of Ana. This cave, located near Sezana, is available from May to October and requires a group of 10 or more to undergo a guided tour. The cave is brightly illuminated and composed of Cretaceous limestone, allowing visitors to appreciate the exquisite stalactites and stalagmites.

The cave's first tour, which began in 1633 and is one of the oldest on record, allows guests to see the Hall of Fairies, where they can stand on a balcony and take in the incredible vistas before them. The cave's trail is long and not too tough to go around. It is, however, recommended that you wear appropriate footwear.

Until the mid-nineteenth century, it was recognized as the Classical Karst's largest, most beautiful, and most frequented cave. Postojna Cave eventually overtook it. The annual Vilenica International Literary Festival has been held in the cave, as well as other cities and villages around the Karst and elsewhere, since 1986. The most typical time for the event is in the beginning of September. The awarding of the Vilenica Prize for Literature by the Slovene Writers' Association is the highlight of the festival. The award is given to a Central European author for literary and essay writing accomplishments in the cave's Plesna Hall.

Length: 4,300 m
Address: Lokev 4v, 6219 Lokev, Slovenia