Báraczháza Cave, also known as the Csákvár Cave, is one of Hungary's most famous paleontological caves, tucked into the dolomite cliffs of Nagy-hegy (Guba-hegy) on the edge of the town of Csákvár in the Vértes Mountains. Fossils of more than 180 animal species have been unearthed here, including the three-toed proto-horse Hipparion, an ancient giraffe, a mastodon and a saber-toothed tiger - finds considered exceptional across Europe.

Three tall, crevice-like entrances are visible from afar along the road to Csákberény, though thick vegetation makes the actual opening easy to miss. Inside, the 87.5-metre-long cave consists of intersecting fissures running almost at right angles, decorated with modest flowstone formations and thick roots hanging from cracks in the ceiling. Near the entrance, a Roman-era Latin inscription dedicated to the goddess Diana can still be made out on the rock face.

How to get there

• Starting from Csákvár - follow the green-marked trail, then branch onto the path marked with a cave symbol (Ω), about 40-45 minutes, easy difficulty
• The cave's location is marked on hiking maps with a cave symbol and name

Practical information

• The cave is strictly protected but can be visited without a special permit
• Walls are often damp and mossy near the entrance, sturdy footwear recommended
• The main passage is comfortably walkable; the narrower side fissure requires more care

Local legend tells of a white lady who sits by the entrance at night guarding a hidden treasure, a story that once convinced villagers that the early researchers were nothing but treasure hunters.