Devetashka Cave: A Window into Prehistoric Bulgaria

Devetashka Cave, located near the village of Devetaki, is one of Bulgaria's largest and most impressive caves. The cave's history stretches back to the Stone Age, with evidence of human habitation dating back 70,000 years. Artifacts discovered within the cave represent a rich source of Neolithic cultural heritage.The cave entrance is a massive 35 meters wide and 30 meters high. Inside, the cave expands into a large hall, reaching up to 60 meters in height in some places, with a total area of 20,400 square meters. Sunlight streams through large openings in the ceiling, illuminating the interior and creating a unique atmosphere. The cave features two main fields: a 2 km long field with a small river that flows into the Osam River, and a warm, dry field ending in a gallery known as the Altar.In the mid-20th century, the cave was used for military purposes and petroleum storage, leaving concrete bases and remnants of a railway. In 2011, it served as a filming location for The Expendables 2, which negatively impacted the bat population. Today, Devetashka Cave is a protected natural landmark and one of Europe's most important bat hibernation sites. Visitors can explore the cave's vast chambers and enjoy the unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.