Speleology

Explore the enchanting beauty of cave crystals and minerals found in underground caverns. From calcite to aragonite, gypsum, and halite, these autochthonous minerals form intricate crystallite formations, including stunning calcite, aragonite, and gypsum flowers. Learn about the unique origins of these formations, connected to ancient hydrological and microclimatic conditions. Uncover the mystery behind these exquisite crystals, some of which are highly sought after for their rarity and value. Delve into a world of natural wonder and geological marvels within the depths of caves. […]

Learn about the Middle Siberian speleological country, which encompasses the Middle Siberian Plateau, the North Siberian Lowland, and the Byranga Mountains. Dive into the Angaro-Lenskaya speleological province, part of the Lena-Yenisei region, where over 80 caves, including the impressive Khudugunskaya, Balaganskaya, Bolshaya Nizhneudinskaya, and Malaya Nizhneudinskaya caves, are waiting to be explored. Explore the geological formations, tectonic fractures, and unique features of Khudugunskaya cave, located near the town of Cheremkhovo on the left bank of the Angara River. […]

The Kungur Ice Cave, nestled near the town of Kungur, Russia, offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the geological wonders of the Permian system. With 58 grottoes and a vast network of passages, this cave showcases the intricate beauty of nature's craftsmanship. Discover the Geographers' Grotto and delve into the mysteries of this underground marvel that bears witness to the forces of tectonic fracturing and karst formations. Join us on a journey through the captivating Kungur Ice Cave.

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Discover the fascinating world of calcite crust and films that form in caves and underground lakes. Calcite crust is typically found at the base of cave walls where water flows down, creating uneven and bumpy surfaces. Some calcite crust can exceed 0.5 meters in thickness. White calcite films can also be observed on the surface of underground lakes with mineralized water, forming a solid film that covers the entire lake. Learn about the unique formation process of these calcite formations and the varying thicknesses they can achieve. […]

Discover the hidden wonders of the Baikal-Stanova speleological country, where over 50 karst caves await exploration. Among them, the cave of the Institute of Geography of Siberia stands out, with its intricate passages and grottoes formed in dislocated marbleized limestone. Join Irkutsk speleologists on a journey through this 870-meter long cave nestled in the western foothills of the Primorsky Ridge. Delve into the depths of this subterranean world, adorned with stalactites and unique rock formations, and experience the thrill of exploring one of the most fascinating cave systems in Siberia. […]

Discover the wonders of the Kizelovskaya Cave, located on the northern outskirts of Kizel. Formed in Visean limestones of the Lower Carboniferous, this underground labyrinth spans about 800 meters with 20 interconnected grottoes. Marvel at the majestic Giant grotto, adorned with calcite deposits and home to cave pearls. Experience the beauty of ice formations in the winter section, including transparent stalactites and stalagmites, as well as a stunning icefall. Uncover the mysteries of this three-storied cave with its narrow corridors and fascinating geological features. […]

Discover the wonders of Divya Cave, located 10 km north of Nyrob, Russia. This cave features 59 grottoes, including the impressive Vetlan, Devy, and Gvozdetsky grottoes. With stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations adorning its walls, Divya Cave offers a unique underground experience. Learn more about the formation of caves and the geological richness of this hidden gem. […]

Discover the wonders of Skelskaya cave, nestled on the western edge of the Ai-Petri mountain massif in Ukraine. This captivating cave is characterized by its tectonic fault of north-western direction, featuring a main grotto adorned with limestone blocks and calcite concretions. Stand in awe of the towering 12-meter-high column that divides the grotto and explore the interconnected smaller grottoes in the lower watered part of the cave. Join us on a journey through the 570-meter-long Skelskaya cave and encounter unique troglobionts like the bokoplava along the way. […]

Discover the mesmerizing beauty of oolite cave pearls, also known as underground leaching, found in carbonate rock caves. These small calcite balls come in various shapes and sizes, with some reaching impressive lengths. Learn about the unique characteristics of cave pearls, their composition, and where the largest oolite in the Soviet Union was discovered. Dive into the world of oolite conglomerates and the intriguing concentric structure of these stunning formations. […]

Uncover the fascinating world of speleology in Turan, where the plains and plateaus of Central Asia hide a treasure trove of caves. Dive into the Ustyurt-Mangyshlak karst area, home to a plethora of caves waiting to be explored. Delve into the Mangyshlak province, with its abundance of underground karst cavities in the Neogene limestones and gypsums. Discover the majestic Omarata cave, a 342-meter-long wonder formed in Sarmatian limestones, offering a glimpse into the intricate beauty of nature's underground creations. […]