Cave of Bossea, Frabosa Soprana
Cave of Bossea (Grotta di Bossea) is a kind of pioneer of underground tourism in Italy. It became the first tourist cave of the Apennines, and later, others were doing the same. Huge spaces are impressing and breathtaking. With every year a considerable stream of visitors increases more and more, because the cave is known far beyond the borders of the country.
History
The Cave of Bossea has been a home to people since time immemorial. Early studies were conducted in the first half of the 19th century by the Domenico Mora group. In 1874, explored the main gallery of the cave, then it was opened for visitors. Already in the 20th century, speleologists discovered a lake called Loser in the cave, in addition to the Mora creek. Scientists have discovered many tunnels and conducted a detailed topographic survey of the cavity of the cave. In 1948, a significant restoration was carried out, the visiting routes were updated, the first electric lighting system was installed. With the development of new technologies by the end of the 20th century, speleologists have discovered more than a kilometer of new galleries at different levels.
Tourist route
The Cave of Bossea is of karst nature. The entrance is located at an altitude of 836 meters above sea level, and a large number of tunnels form a huge underground system that extends for many kilometers. Inside, visitors see impressive sizes of expanses, followed by overhanging walls and ceilings with sharp edges, rocks, ravines and huge boulders. Among all this diversity, tourists can experience an entertaining route. During the excursion you can learn about the development of the underground karst system, the biological population of the cave fauna (about 50 species of invertebrates), and also visit the underground scientific laboratory. The highlight of the cave is the large skeleton of the ancient bear Ursus Spelaeus, that probably fell into hibernation here many thousands of years ago. Also, there are remains of people who lived here more than 12 thousand years ago and died during the last ice age.
The total length of the route is 3 kilometers with a height difference of 116 meters. Going to the cave, it is worth to have good strong shoes and warm clothes. The temperature inside constantly stays at a mark of 9 degrees.
How to get there
The Cave of Bossea is located in the commune of Frabosa Soprana, at Bossea, 10. It is 110 kilometers to the south of Turin. To get to it, you need to leave the Porta Nuova station in Turin, and go on the RV train to the city of Mondovi. From it, the bus № 175 will take you almost to the cave.
Opening hours: every day from 10:00 to 18:00. From October to February, it is recommended to call before a visit and specify the time. Phone number (+39) 0174 349240.
Admission: the price of the adult ticket is 11 euros, for children (3-10) – 8 euros. For groups (minimum 25 people) – 9 euros per person. Data of April 2018.
