Shpella e Pëllumbasit: The Black Cave of Pëllumbas
Explore Shpella e Pëllumbasit: A journey into Albania's prehistoric past, where natural beauty meets ancient history in a stunning karst cave.
Shpella e Pëllumbasit, or Pëllumbas Cave, also known as the Black Cave (Shpella e Zezë), is a captivating destination steeped in history and natural beauty. Situated near the village of Pëllumbas in the Skorana Gorge, approximately 25 kilometers southeast of Tirana, this cave presents a unique glimpse into Albania's prehistoric past and geological wonders. Archaeological excavations have revealed that the cave served as a dwelling for early human inhabitants around 10,000 years ago. Evidence suggests the use of fire and the creation of primitive tools, highlighting the cave's importance in understanding the cultural and evolutionary narrative of the region. The cave also holds the remains of the extinct cave bear (Ursus spelaeus), which lived between 10,000 and 400,000 years ago. As one of the six known karst caves in Europe, Shpella e Pëllumbasit is perched 350 meters above sea level and features a tunnel stretching 70-80 meters. The cave extends to a length of 360 meters, and its main passage reaches heights of 10-15 meters and widths of 15-45 meters. Inside, visitors can marvel at impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations sculpted over thousands of years. The trail to the cave winds through the picturesque Skorana Gorge, carved by the Erzeni River, offering scenic views along the way. The hike from Pëllumbas village to the cave takes about 30-50 minutes.
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as the trail to the cave can be steep and rocky.
- Bring a flashlight or headlamp for better visibility inside the darker sections of the cave.
- Carry water and snacks, especially during warmer months, as the hike to the cave can be tiring.
- Consider visiting during the off-season (spring or fall) to avoid crowds and enjoy milder weather.
A brief summary to Shpella e Pëllumbasit
- 7X49+V5V, Pëllumbas, AL
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Pëllumbas village, follow the marked hiking trail towards the mountain. The moderately challenging hike takes approximately 30-50 minutes. The trail winds through rocky terrain and forested areas before reaching the cave entrance. There are no entrance fees to access the trail or the cave.
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Taxi
From Tirana, a taxi to Pëllumbas village will cost approximately 1500-2500 Lekë (around $16 - $27 USD), depending on the taxi company and traffic. The ride takes about 30-45 minutes. From the village center, follow the walking directions to reach the cave. There is no parking fee in the village.
