Stalactite Cave
צילום: Muna Saba
Stalactite Cave – An underground wonder
Deep within the Judean Hills lies a magical cave full of natural sculptures formed over hundreds of thousands of years
On a hot summer day, one may escape to the Stalactite Cave at the Avshalom Reserve east of Beit Shemesh, where with just a bit of imagination, dozens of magnificent natural sculptures can come to life.
The cave, which was discovered by chance in a miners' blast some 40 years ago, contains stalactites and stalagmites that vary in shape and size, with some dating back to up to 300,000 years.
Different kinds of 'sculptures' found in the cave (Photo: Muna Saba)
A tour of the reserve begins with a brief hike down the Judean hill to the visitor center, where guided tours in groups of about 30 are offered in Hebrew and English.
Before entering the cave, a short film explaining the geological events that led to the creation of the natural wonder is screened.
Since touching the formations in the cave is forbidden, so as not to disrupt its natural processes, sample stalactites which have fallen or broken off from within the cave are placed at the entrance for those with curious hands.
The guide then takes the group through the bordered path, pointing out certain "sculptures" which one finds hard to believe were not manmade.
The different kinds of "sculptures" found in the cave include "Elephant ears", "Capitol Hill", "Snow White and the Seven Dwarves", a crocodile's head, a dancing couple, coral, and ice cream to name just a few.
Many of the formations in the cave are still active, meaning that a visit back in a few decades could uncover new developments.
A large "Honey Wall" made up of dozens of stalactites and stalagmites growing and meeting over tens of thousands of years can be found towards the end of the path.
The wall was given its name due to its golden color – a result of minerals found in the rainwater trickling from above – its shiny appearance, and the droopy pattern that has been created over the years.
The temperature in the cave remains 22 degrees Celsius all year round, with constant 90 percent humidity, making it suitable for a visit in any season.
For directions and information on opening hours, call 02-9911117, 02-9994730, 02-9915756
