Gutman’s Cave
Gutman’s Cave is the largest, most legendary and visited cave in the Baltics. It is located near the Gauja River, near the Latvian town of Sigulda. The picturesque cave was formed about 10 thousand years ago – in the post-glacial period. It is believed that in ancient times pagan rituals could have taken place here.
Video: Gutmania Cave
Highlights
Gutmanja Cave is relatively small. It has an area of 170 m², a depth of 18.8 m, a width of 12 m, and a ceiling height of up to 10 m. The volume of the cave is just over 500 m³. The underground cavity is located in red Devonian sandstone, which was formed about 400 million years ago. There are inscriptions on the walls of the cave, the oldest of which were made in 1668 and 1677.
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A stream flows out of the ground, to which the locals attribute healing properties. Most tourists get here as part of excursion groups. You can see the natural attraction on your own for free. Gutmanja Cave is available from April to October from 9:00 to 17:00, and from November to March from 10:00 to 16:00.
.Legends of Gutmanja Cave
According to legend, the Gutmanja cave was named after the village healer Guterman, who successfully treated many ailments. His name means “good man” in German. Tour guides offer tourists to wash themselves with water from the underground spring and cure their illnesses.
There is a legend about the origin of the Gutmanja cave. In retaliation for his infidelity, Rindaug, the leader of the Liv tribe, ordered his wife to be buried alive near the river. The woman mourned her fate bitterly. From her tears a stream appeared, which broke through the dungeon on the river bank.
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Another legend tells that two lovers met in the Gutman’s cave. Victor Hale was a gardener in Sigulda Castle, and Maja lived in the ancient Turaida Castle. The girl was called the Turaida Rose for her incredible beauty..How to get there
Gutmanja Cave is located in central Latvia, near the town of Sigulda. Travelers approach it on the road leading from Sigulda to Turaida (highway P8). In order to get to the entrance to the cave, you need to cross to the opposite bank of the river. Gutmanja Cave is located next to the tourist information center of the Gauja National Park.
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