The cave is located in northwestern Bulgaria, 17 km from the town of Belogradchik. It is carved into the limestone Rabisha Hill (461 m above sea level). It is one of the largest caves in the country—the total length of the explored galleries is about 2,500 m. It consists of a main gallery and three side branches.
According to geological studies, the formation of the Magura Cave began about 15 million years ago. In one of its halls, prehistoric drawings have been discovered, carved into the rock and painted with bat guano (droppings). The figures depict dancing female silhouettes, dancing and hunting men, masked people, animals, stars, tools, and plants. The drawings date from different periods—the Epipaleolithic, Neolithic, Chalcolithic, and the beginning of the Early Bronze Age.
The solar calendar from the late Neolithic period found here is the oldest known solar calendar discovered in Europe. It is painted on the walls of the sanctuary hall and marks at least five festivals as well as 366 days.
Magura Cave was declared a natural landmark by Order No. 666 of May 3, 1960.
The temperature in the cave is a constant 12°C year-round. It is most visited by tourists during the summer season.
The cave contains some of the richest formations in terms of shape and size—stalactites, stalagmites, stalagnates, flowstone pockets, cave pearls, and “cave milk.” Particularly impressive is the “Great Stalactone,” with a height of over 20 m and a base diameter of 4 m. The “Fallen Pine” is the largest stalagmite in the explored Bulgarian caves, measuring over 11 m in length and 6 m in base diameter.
The cave is also used for the production of sparkling wine, which matures under natural conditions similar to those used in the production of French champagne.
It is open for year-round visits with an entrance fee and a mandatory guided tour in Bulgarian. Written guide materials are available in Bulgarian, English, and German. There is also an option to visit the “Gallery of Prehistoric Drawings” for an additional fee. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes due to slippery sections and bring warm clothing, as the temperature inside the cave is 12°C.
The cave is located 17 km from the town of Belogradchik and is accessible by road transport. There is a parking area for cars and buses near the entrance, as well as clear signage and information boards.
There are fast food facilities available at both the entrance and exit of the cave, as well as a designated area for the sale of locally produced souvenirs and promotional materials at the entrance.
At the cave exit, there is a shop of the “Magura” winery. An attraction train transports visitors from the cave exit back to the parking area at the entrance.