Nestled at an elevation of 580 meters, Govještica Cave is a fascinating underground wonder in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Located approximately 40 kilometers east of Sarajevo, in the Prača River canyon, this awe-inspiring cave lies at the base of the Romanija Massif.
Govještica Cave is part of a remarkable karst landscape and is situated near the renowned Mračna Pećina, adding to the area’s rich caving heritage. This 9.6-kilometer-long cave is a natural marvel that captivates visitors with its grand entrance and unique geological features.
The Entrance
At the southern side of the cave, a spacious opening measuring 8 meters wide and 12 meters high invites you into its depths. Just above the entrance, an oval-shaped opening in the cave’s ceiling is beautifully adorned with deciduous trees, creating a striking visual contrast with the moss-covered rocks below. However, this picturesque natural canopy can be tricky to navigate, so explorers are advised to approach with care.
Inside the Cave
Once inside, the cave splits into two main corridors, extending northwest and southeast. The northwest path remains open to adventurers, offering a chance to delve deeper into the cave’s hidden secrets.
The first challenge visitors encounter is a serene pond, whose size fluctuates depending on the season. During dry months, the pond measures about 8 meters in diameter. However, during winter and spring, when the water levels rise by up to 3 meters, the cave transforms into an underground river.
The water gushes from a mysterious source deep within the cave, believed to be connected to the subterranean waters of the Rešetnica River, originating from the Glasinačka Plateau.
At this time, the cave’s entrance becomes a stunning waterfall, a spectacle that draws nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. However, during these periods of high water, access to the cave is restricted for safety reasons.
Exploring the Depths
The initial section of Govještica Cave is an expansive vault, stretching 30 meters to the north. From here, the passageway leads westward, extending an additional 40 meters before reaching a small lake, approximately 10 meters long and 8 meters wide.
As you journey through the cave, you’ll encounter stunning calcite crystals and rare helictites, with the passage eventually opening into vast chambers, some of which reach up to 100 meters in length.
Govještica’s complex system of vertical shafts, siphons, lakes, and sinkholes plunging over 60 meters in depth makes it a thrilling and challenging destination for seasoned spelunkers. The cave’s many underground rivers and lakes add to the excitement and mystery of exploring this natural wonder.
A Haven for Wildlife and Ancient History
Govještica Cave isn’t just a geological marvel; it’s also of great scientific and ecological significance. The cave is home to a substantial colony of around 1,000 bats, making it an essential habitat for these nocturnal creatures. Additionally, the cave holds historical treasures in the form of cave bear (Ursus spelaeus) bones, which are estimated to be over 20,000 years old.
The presence of troglobiotic species, including the rare Anthroherpon cylindricollis, further enhances the cave’s biological importance. The stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and other cave formations make Govještica one of the most visually captivating caves in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
