KARST PHENOMENA: FÜRSTLOCH CAVE / VELIKA KNEŽJA JAMA
Jame, Rastlinstvo in živalstvo, Pohodne poti, Naravne znamenitosti, Spomeniki
Kočevski rog, 8350 Dolenjske Toplice
Velika Knežja jama, literally meaning great prince's cave or Fürstloch, is a prominent cave in the wooded area of Kočevski rog. Caves and the stories they tell have always sparked imagination in the minds of countless adventurers. Topographically it is a typical karst formation, a sinkhole with depth of 33 meters. It is located about 2 kilometers southwest of the town of Podstenice and 4 kilometers northeast of Trnovec. The great hall measures 60X30 meters and has several entrances. It has its own distinctive microclimate, where the snow can last until summer. Only guided tours with proper equipment are recommended as far as caving is concerned as the level of difficulty is quite high, but visitors can also take a look at the inside from the observation brink. In the near vicinity there are several more caves and chasms, including Mala knežja jama and various chasms, mostly known for being the site of summary executions at the end of Second World War. A monument in the form of a wooden cross has been erected next to the fenced double chasm called Cink križ. Velika Knežja jama and nearby chasms are registered as a heritage site.
CAUTION: In Kočevski Rog, always stick to marked and maintained trails and forest roads! You can only enter the caves accompanied by experienced cavers, provided that you have all the necessary equipment and permits, unless it is a strictly protected area, where entry is not allowed at all. Tours are only at your own risk. We advise you to always first inquire about the possibility of visiting with the Slovenian Caving Association or the local caving association in Novo mesto.
There are some strictly protected areas, such as Podstenice Sink-hole, which is protected as a natural monument and a forest reserve. Here you can only take a careful peek from the edge. Similarly the entrance into the Jazbina cave is generally forbidden, as it is a known bat refuge, which is why it is not visited during summer and winter.
For more information, contact us at 07 38 45 188 or at tic@dolenjske-toplice.si.
