Silická ľadnica

Silická Ice Cave is a glaciated abyss in the central part of the Silica Plateau and a genuine world rarity — it is the world's lowest-lying ice cave, situated at an elevation of just 503 metres. It was formed by the underground course of the Čierny potok stream in the limestones of the Silica Nappe and is part of the Silica-Gombasek underground hydrological system.

The abyss formed when the ceiling of an older underground chamber collapsed roughly 2,000 years ago. Thanks to its depth and microclimate, it displays a so-called inversion of flora and fauna, where species that wouldn't normally be expected at this elevation grow and live in the cold depths. The ice cave is also a significant archaeological site with ancient traces of human presence.

Silická Ice Cave has been a national natural monument since 1982 and, since 1995, part of the UNESCO World Heritage as one of the Caves of the Slovak and Aggtelek Karst. The entrance is fenced off and the cave isn't freely accessible, so what visitors mainly admire is its unique location amid a karst landscape. Still, the surroundings of the abyss alone are well worth the visit.

It lies near the village of Silica in the Rožňava district, at the heart of Slovak Karst National Park. The area offers extensive opportunities for hiking, exploring karst phenomena and visiting nearby show caves. For lovers of nature and geology it's a fascinating destination well worth including in a longer exploration of the region — accommodation around Rožňava or the Silica Plateau is an ideal base for trips into this exceptional corner of Slovakia.