Grotte di Pertosa-Auletta (dell'Angelo)
Pertosa (SA)
FamousNature
The story
You enter by boat, gliding in silence along the river Negro, before the stalactites of the Angelo open up in the dark belly of the Alburni.
Access
€ guided tours
The story
The Grotte di Pertosa-Auletta, also called Grotte dell'Angelo, are a karst complex in the inland Cilento, crossed by an underground river, the Tanagro. They are the only caves in Italy where you sail: part of the route is made by boat, on the water that flows in the darkness of the mountain.
What to see
A journey into the subsoil among concretions and great halls, that begins by going up the black river by boat; in the recesses, the traces of an ancient Bronze Age pile-dwelling village. An experience unlike any other cave.
Hours and prices
Free entry.
Tips
Only with a guided tour, at fixed departures: book and check hours and routes on the operator's site. Watch the water level — after heavy rains some stretches, including the one by boat, can close. Inside it is cool all year round: bring a sweatshirt.
Frequently asked questions
Why are the Grotte di Pertosa special?
They are the only caves in Italy where part of the route is made by boat, on the underground river Tanagro; they also keep traces of a Bronze Age pile-dwelling village.
How do you visit the Grotte di Pertosa?
Only with a guided tour at fixed departures: book and check hours and routes on the operator's site, bearing in mind that after rain some stretches can close.
What temperature is there in the Grotte di Pertosa?
Cool and constant all year round: it is best to bring a sweatshirt even in summer.
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