The cave is 45 meters long and 18 meters high, with an internal floor space measuring roughly 200 square meters.
Archaeologists discovered remnants of hearths and stone tools suggesting human habitation from the Mousterian culture.
The cave name is linked to a legend claiming Sultan Selim I used the cave as a refuge for the local population during the 16th century.
The two skylight-like holes in the ceiling were formed by the collapse of the cave's limestone dome.
It is categorized as a high-priority protected natural area due to its paleontological significance.
Selim Cave is a large, open-ceiling limestone cavern located on the side of Kő-hegy mountain in Tatabánya. It is a protected natural value of Hungary, famous for its archaeological finds dating back to the prehistoric era. Excavations have unearthed stone tools and remains of extinct animals like cave bears and cave lions. The cave features two prominent circular openings in its roof, which provide natural light to the cavern floor. It gained historical significance as a refuge for local residents during the Ottoman Turkish occupation. The site is easily accessible via a short hike from the nearby Turul Monument. Its high altitude provides a vantage point over the city of Tatabánya and the surrounding valley. The limestone structure shows significant signs of karst weathering and erosion.
Position yourself in the center of the cave floor looking upward toward the two large roof apertures.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip as the trail and cave floor can be uneven or slippery.
Bring a flashlight if you wish to inspect the darker crevices, though the main chamber is naturally lit.
Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds that often gather during the weekend.
Attempting to climb the steep limestone walls inside the cave, which are unstable and prohibited.
Maintain silence to respect the natural environment; do not touch or remove geological formations or archaeological artifacts.
