Shpella e Pëllumbasit Travel Guide

Shpella e Pëllumbasit, or Pëllumbas Cave, also known as the Black Cave (Shpella e Zezë), is a captivating natural and archaeological site located near Pëllumbas village, roughly 25 kilometers southeast of Tirana, Albania. The cave resides within the Skorana Gorge, nestled on the slopes of Dajti National Park.This karst cave is one of the most significant in the region, drawing visitors with its historical, geological, and ecological importance. Archaeological studies reveal that the area was inhabited by our ancestors around 10,000 years ago. Evidence suggests the use of fire and the creation of both primitive and advanced tools during that era. The cave also contains remains of the extinct cave bear, which lived between 10,000 and 400,000 years ago.The cave itself stretches 360 meters in length, with widths ranging from 10 to 15 meters and heights from 15 to 45 meters. Its interior is adorned with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, creating a unique underground landscape. The cave is composed of several halls.Getting to the cave involves a scenic hike from Pëllumbas village, taking approximately 45 minutes to an hour. The trail is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of the Erzeni River gorge.