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Königshöhle: A Prehistoric Window in Baden bei Wien

Explore the Königshöhle near Baden bei Wien: a captivating blend of prehistoric history, geological intrigue, and bouldering fun in the Vienna Woods.

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The Königshöhle (King's Cave), near Baden bei Wien, is an unassuming cave of immense archaeological significance. It is the namesake of the Baden Culture, a Neolithic civilization that thrived in the region between 3600 and 2800 BC. The cave offers a unique journey into Austria's prehistoric past and is also a popular bouldering destination.

A brief summary to Königshöhle

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a hike to the nearby Rauheneck Castle ruins for panoramic views of the Helenental valley.
  • Visit during a full moon for a magical experience as the moonlight illuminates the cave entrance.
  • Wear sturdy shoes, as the path to the cave can be steep and uneven.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Baden bei Wien, the Königshöhle can be reached by following the Weilburgstraße into the Helenental. Continue past the Hotel Sacher and turn right over the Schwechat river. Park near the Rodelnetz (sledding net) and follow the blue markings towards the Ruine Rauheneck. From the Ruine, continue to the Königshöhle. The walk to the cave is a steep, 20-minute uphill trek. There are no entrance fees or tolls.

  • Public Transport

    From the Baden train station, take a local bus towards the Helenental. Get off near the Hotel Sacher and follow the directions for walking. Bus tickets within Baden are available through VOR (Verkehrsverbund Ost-Region). A single VOR ticket for a short trip within Baden costs around €2.40.

  • Taxi

    From Baden bei Wien, a taxi to the vicinity of Königshöhle is a convenient option. Taxis are readily available in Baden. The ride to the Helenental and the start of the walking path will be short. The taxi fare will be approximately €10-15, based on the local tariff of a base fee of €4.50 plus €1.90 per kilometer. From there, follow the walking directions.

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Discover more about Königshöhle

Nestled in the Wienerwald (Vienna Woods) near Baden bei Wien, the Königshöhle offers a unique glimpse into Austria's prehistoric past. This 25-meter-deep cave holds immense archaeological significance as the namesake of the Baden Culture, a Neolithic civilization that thrived in the region between 3600 and 2800 BC. The cave is located on the northwestern slope of the Wolfstal valley, beneath the Rauheneck plateau, at an altitude of approximately 350 meters. The entrance, a wide portal measuring 16 meters across and 3 meters high, beckons visitors into the depths of history. Inside, a collapsed ceiling reveals a dramatic opening, approximately four meters in diameter, through which sunlight streams, illuminating a massive rockfall block below. This creates a captivating atmosphere, blending natural beauty with a sense of ancient mystery. Archaeological excavations in the late 19th and early 20th centuries unearthed a wealth of artifacts within the Königshöhle, providing invaluable insights into the Baden Culture. These findings included distinctive pottery shards, tools crafted from stone and bone, and even traces of copperworking, indicating the advanced skills of these early inhabitants. The Baden Culture is characterized by its unique ceramic styles, including amphora-like vessels, shallow bowls with intricate decorations, and mugs with distinctive strap handles. Today, the Königshöhle is also a popular spot for bouldering. The area around the cave is suitable for kids, but caution is advised due to broken glass and remnants of campfires.

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