The cave consists of a hall which is dominated by a 38 metres high stalagmitic column. The walls of the hall are covered with numerous marvellous concretions and limestone cascades of extraordinary beauty.

The visitors’ tour takes about 45 minutes. The route starts from a panoramic viewing platform on the left of the entrance, from which you can admire the view of the depth of the abyss, and of the 280 steps that lead down to the foot of the column.

In the interior of the cave, there is the Virgins’ Abyss, a deep and narrow funnel that is connected with the other subterranean branches of the cave that stretch for 12 kilometres across the bowels of the earth. Numerous little creeks and brooks cross this branch of the cave throughout the whole year. Therefore, it is open to expert cave explorers only.

The abyss is of historical interest: the discovery of mortal remains of small dimensions, of rings, pieces of jewellry and sun symbols in the cave indicate the existence of a Phoenician sacrifice well. On the basis of these archaeological finds, a legend has come up that tells how the Phoenicians offered human sacrifices to soothe the gods.

Take the road that leads from Dorgali to Orosei: just a few kilometres behind Dorgali, there is a signpost to the cave on the right.

The cave is visitable from April to October, during the winter months it is closed to the public.

Opening hours: from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Entrance fee: €uros 7.

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