Uhlovitsa Cave: An Underground Rhodope Palace

Uhlovitsa Cave, often called the "Underground Palace of the Rhodopes", is a breathtaking show cave located in the Smolyan Province of Bulgaria. Situated in the Blue Pools Area of the Rhodope Mountains, it lies 3 km northeast of Mogilitsa village, approximately 30 km southwest of Smolyan, and 37 km from the resort of Pamporovo. The cave's name originates from the Bulgarian word "ululitsa," referring to a Strix owl species that once inhabited the region. Discovered in 1967 by Dimitar and Georgi Raichev, Uhlovitsa is one of the oldest caves in the area, estimated to be over 3.5 million years old. The cave extends for 460 meters, with 330 meters accessible to visitors. Inside, the temperature remains a constant 10-11°C. A guided tour takes you through a mesmerizing display of natural formations, including dendrites resembling corals and trees, helictites that look like stone suns, stalactites, stalagmites, and impressive stone waterfalls. The Hall of the Abysses, located on the upper floor, features four deep chasms leading to the lower level, which can be reached via a metal staircase. The cave concludes with the stunning Seven Lakes, which fill with water in the spring, and the Big Stone Fall, a sparkling white formation. To reach the cave entrance, visitors must walk a kilometer uphill from the parking lot, ascending 150 meters. This climb takes about 30 minutes and requires comfortable shoes and clothing. The path offers scenic views of the Arda River valley. Inside the cave, a metal ladder with 180 steps and 280 steps connect the different levels.