Veternica Cave

Veternica Cave, in the midst of the Medvednica Nature Park, is known for its historic archaeological sites. It is Croatia's fourth-longest cave and an important natural resource open to tourists for exploration. The cave is protected to help preserve natural phenomena such as sand dunes and vortex pots that occur within it.

The cave was formed by the sinking of water from the Ponikve area beside the crevices in the rock in a karst "pocket" in the southwest portion of Medvednica. It is Zagreb's oldest archaeological site, as its darkness preserved evidence of the turbulent lives of previous millennia, from Neanderthals, Roman troops, and medieval robbers to modern adventurers and visitors.

The cult of the cave bear was worshipped by the early residents of Zagreb, who were Neanderthal hunters of the Mousterian culture. Aside from cave bears, other long-extinct creatures such as cave lions, leopards, cave hyenas, rhinoceros, wild cattle, and giant deer have left evidence in the cave.

The temperature in the Veternica Cave remains around 10 degrees Celsius throughout the year, therefore it is advisable to bring warm, layered clothing even in the summer. Because the cave can only be reached via hiking routes, and there are muddy sections inside, sport shoes are also recommended. Those who suffer from claustrophobia should avoid going underground. Veternica takes 45 to 60 minutes to visit.

Location: Zagreb, Croatia