The Kůlna Cave within the complex is a renowned archaeological site where researchers discovered a partial Neanderthal skull dating back 120,000 years.
The system includes the Nagel Abyss, one of the deepest underground chasms in the Czech Republic, plunging 120 meters from the surface.
The caves are part of a larger karst landscape that functions as a complex drainage basin for the Punkva River.
During the winter months, these caves serve as critical hibernation habitats for multiple species of bats.
The caves were first systematically explored in the late 18th century by the local hermit and pioneer explorer Bernard Kraus.
Sloupsko-šošůvské jeskyně is the largest accessible cave system in the Moravian Karst, featuring two levels of subterranean galleries connected by a massive karst canyon. The system comprises the Sloup and Šošůvka caves, linked by the underground Punkva River's drainage path. The Eliška Cave is notable for its rich concentration of stalactite and stalagmite formations, including the famous 'Candle' formation. Visitors traverse the Kůlna Cave, a site of international archaeological significance for prehistoric human discoveries. The caverns feature integrated viewing platforms and elevated walkways designed to navigate the rugged subterranean terrain. The tour route descends deep into the abyss, passing through significant natural chasms like the Stupňovitá chasm. Constant temperatures inside the caves remain between 7 and 8 degrees Celsius year-round. Lighting installations emphasize the geological structures of the limestone chambers.
The viewing platform overlooking the Nagel Abyss, which provides the most expansive perspective of the cavern's vertical scale.
Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear as the cave paths are often damp and can be slippery.
Bring a warm jacket or fleece, as the temperature inside the cave remains consistently low regardless of the weather outside.
Book your tour slot in advance during the peak summer months to guarantee entry, as group sizes are capped.
Do not attempt to explore beyond the guided path, as the cave system is vast, complex, and features dangerous drops.
Closed on Mondays during the off-season; the site is typically closed to visitors during the coldest winter months to protect hibernating bats.
Touching the rock formations is strictly prohibited to prevent oil damage from human skin; flash photography is permitted, but tripods are generally restricted.
