Explore the wonders of Baredine Cave. Unveil the karst formations, underground sculptures, and the enduring legend of forbidden love.
What to expect
Mesmerizing stalactites, stalagmites, and remarkable underground sculptures.
Baredine Cave, an enchanting karst phenomenon, unveils the captivating secrets hidden beneath the surface of Istria, Croatia. Since its opening to the public in 1995, this speleological masterpiece has enticed tourists from near and far, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
A Serene Oasis: Location and Surroundings
Nestled in the northern part of Istria, Baredine Cave finds its home near Nova Vas. Actually, it's between the picturesque towns of Poreč, Višnjan, and Tar. Only 5 kilometers away from the stunning coastline, the cave is surrounded by a tapestry of historical wonders. It includes prehistoric archaeological sites, ancient forts, medieval monasteries, and pristine landscapes.
Unveiling the Name: Origins and Transformation
The name "Baredine" derives from the term that refers to the area surrounding a cave. Originally associated with uncultivated soil, the name no longer accurately represents reality. Over the centuries, the diligent locals have transformed the rocky terrain into fertile fields. They adorned them with neatly arranged olive gardens and vineyards stretching toward the sparkling sea.
A Journey Through Time: Geological Origins
Baredine Cave's captivating formations are a result of the intricate karst landform processes that took place approximately 3.5 million years ago. The cave was formed within Cretaceous period sea sediment, covered with a layer of red soil known as terra rossa. Over time, the constant flow of water sculpted the underground chambers, creating an intricate network of awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites.
Hidden Treasures: The Cave's Splendors
Descending into Baredine Cave reveals a series of five interconnected rooms that descend to a depth of 60 meters, where a serene lake awaits. Among the cave's remarkable formations are the mesmerizing 10-meter-long "curtains," a lifelike statue of the Virgin Mary, the shepherdess Milka, a stunning depiction of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the iconic Snowman, a torchbearer, and symbol of the cave.
The Legend Lives On: A Tale of Forbidden Love
Echoing through the ages, a captivating legend dating back to the 13th century surrounds Baredine Cave. The story tells of a forbidden love between Gabrijel, a nobleman from Poreč, and Milka, a beautiful shepherdess from Nova Vas. Despite the efforts of Gabrijel's malevolent mother, who sought to extinguish their love, Milka's life was spared, and she was banished to the depths of the cave. Gabrijel, driven by love, rode his horse towards the cave's entrance and disappeared, leaving only the horse's remains nearby. Legend says that Milka's petrified body continues its descent into the depths of the cave in search of her beloved. Speleologists speculate that a minor excavation could potentially unite Baredine Cave with a neighboring cave. It's some kind of symbolizing the eternal reunion of these ill-fated lovers in the underground realm.
An Extraordinary Adventure: Exploration and Wonder
With an average air temperature of 14°C and underground water measuring 13.2°C, Baredine Cave offers intrepid explorers an otherworldly experience. Stretching over a length of 300 meters, this subterranean wonder beckons visitors to delve into its mysteries, immersing themselves in its geological and historical significance. You simply must visit this unique spot to understand what we’re talking about!