Top 19 Caves around Kelbra (Kyffhäuser)
Best caves around Kelbra (Kyffhäuser) are found within the Kyffhäuser GeoPark and the South Harz Karst region. This area is characterized by its unique geological formations, including rare anhydrite and gypsum caves. Visitors can explore a variety of subterranean landscapes, featuring crystal-clear underground lakes and impressive caverns. The region offers insights into both natural history and local folklore.
Best caves around Kelbra (Kyffhäuser)
- The most popular caves is Barbarossa Cave (Touringen Stamp Point No. 135), a cave that is one of two accessible anhydrite caves in the world. It is the only anhydrite show cave in Europe, covering 13,000 square meters.
- Another must-see spot is Heimkehle Show Cave, a cave and natural monument. This show cave is one of around 200 known caves in the South Harz Karst region and features a grand hall reaching 22 meters in height.
- Visitors also love Ziegenschwanz Cave, a cave and natural monument. This typical crevice cave requires a flashlight to explore its interior.
- Kelbra (Kyffhäuser) is known for its unique anhydrite and gypsum caves. The region offers a variety of subterranean landscapes to see and explore.
- The caves around Kelbra (Kyffhäuser) are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 900 upvotes and nearly 1000 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Barbarossa Cave (Touringen Stamp Point No. 135)
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Heimkehle Show Cave
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You can find more information and opening times here: gemeinde-suedharz.de/schauhoehle-heimkehle.
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Barbarossa Cave
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Princes' Cave (Kyffhäuser)
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Ziegenschwanz Cave
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Tips from the Community
The cozy restaurant serves Thuringian specialties. There is a snack bar with outdoor seating. Here you can wait with a drink and a little something to eat until the tours of the cave begin.
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The Barbarossa Cave covers 13,000 square meters and is one of only two existing show caves in the world, made of anhydrite rock, making it a geological rarity. The unique charm of this magical subterranean world lies in the uniquely beautiful, multi-layered play of colors of the white to gray rock.
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The Barbarossa Cave was discovered purely by chance. The idea was to revive copper shale mining in the Kyffhäuser region. In 1860, the entrepreneur Wilhelm von Born therefore had a tunnel dug beneath the ruins of the Falkenburg and directly on the old salt road to Bad Frankenhausen. Meter by meter, the miners penetrated further and further into the mountain. And then: after a distance of 178 meters, on December 22, 1865, the mountain suddenly opened up in front of them - they came across natural cavities of impressive size and beauty.
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The Barbarossa Cave was discovered in 1865 by miners searching for copper shale and opened to the public as a show cave two weeks later. A visit is definitely worthwhile, admission costs €9.50.
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I went in and the mosquitoes in the shady cave were happy about my visit.
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The cave is actually open to the public.
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In the Prince's Cave you can marvel at Marienglas, in the right light it sparkles like a dream.
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Entrance fees are currently €9.50 with a guided tour
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the caves around Kelbra (Kyffhäuser) unique?
The region is known for its unique geological formations, particularly its anhydrite and gypsum caves. The Barbarossa Cave is Europe's only show cave formed in anhydrite rock, covering an impressive 15,000 square meters. The Heimkehle Show Cave is one of Germany's largest and most impressive gypsum show caves.
Are there any historical or legendary caves in the region?
Yes, the Barbarossa Cave is steeped in legend, with tales of Emperor Barbarossa sitting at a marble table through which his red beard has grown over centuries. The Heimkehle Show Cave also has a significant history, having been affected by the armaments industry during World War II.
Which caves are suitable for families with children?
Both the Barbarossa Cave and the Heimkehle Show Cave are family-friendly show caves, offering guided tours that are educational and engaging for all ages. The Ziegenschwanz Cave is also listed as family-friendly, though it requires a flashlight for exploration.
What should I wear when visiting the caves?
It is advisable to bring a jacket when visiting show caves like the Heimkehle Show Cave, as underground temperatures remain consistently cold throughout the year. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended for exploring.
Are there any caves that require a flashlight to explore?
Yes, the Ziegenschwanz Cave, a typical crevice cave, requires a flashlight to explore its interior. There are benches outside for resting before or after your visit.
Can I find food and drinks near the main show caves?
Yes, the Barbarossa Cave has a cozy restaurant serving Thuringian specialties and a snack bar with outdoor seating, where you can wait for tours. There are also cafes and pubs in the broader Kelbra (Kyffhäuser) region.
What kind of rock formations can I expect to see in the caves?
In the Barbarossa Cave, you can marvel at bizarrely curved gypsum flaps, some resembling hanging skins, and a diverse palette of white to grey rock formations like 'gypsum beads,' 'snake gypsum,' and 'alabaster eyes.' Both Barbarossa and Heimkehle Show Cave feature crystal-clear underground lakes with spectacular reflections.
Are there other outdoor activities I can do near the caves?
Yes, the Kelbra (Kyffhäuser) region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy hikes around Kelbra (Kyffhäuser), as well as MTB trails and road cycling routes. For more information on routes, visit the easy hikes guide, MTB trails guide, or road cycling routes guide for the area.
Is the Numburg Cave accessible to visitors?
The Numburg Cave, recognized as the largest cave in the Kyffhäuser area, is currently closed for security reasons. It is located on the southern bank of the Kelbra dam.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the Barbarossa Cave?
Visitors appreciate the Barbarossa Cave for its geological rarity as one of only two accessible anhydrite caves in the world and the only anhydrite show cave in Europe. Its unique charm lies in the beautiful, multi-layered play of colors of the white to gray rock and the impressive size of its natural cavities.
What makes the Heimkehle Show Cave a significant natural wonder?
The Heimkehle Show Cave is one of the largest and most impressive show caves in Germany, featuring crystal-clear underground lakes and a grand hall that reaches a height of 22 meters, known as the Great Dome. It is also one of only two public gypsum show caves in Germany.
Do I need a permit to visit the show caves?
Generally, you do not need a separate permit to visit the established show caves like Barbarossa Cave or Heimkehle Show Cave. Access is typically through guided tours with an entrance fee. For specific opening times and booking information, it's best to check the respective cave's official website.
What is the best time of year to visit the caves?
Caves maintain a consistent cool temperature year-round, making them a good destination in any season. However, visiting during spring or autumn can offer pleasant weather for exploring the surrounding Kyffhäuser GeoPark and South Harz Karst region before or after your cave tour.
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