| |
|
|
Make for the plunging Frasassi Gorge for a "journey to the
centre of the Earth" through the Grotte di Frasassi, one of
Italy's largest and most famous complex of caves. An ideal jaunt
for a rainy day - or a very hot summer's day.
Some 13 km of limestone caverns have so far been
explored and it is reckoned that they may run for up to
35 km. Only one and a half km of this crystalline
wonderland is open to the general public. Equipped with
walkways and theatrical lighting, it includes the
awesome Grotta Grande del Vento, Europe's largest single
cavern, so vast that Milan Cathedral would fit
comfortably inside, and some of the most extravagantly
fanciful stalagmites and stalactites you are ever likely
to see. Even claustrophobics shouldn't find it too
challenging.
The guided tour lasts for around an hour; dress up
warmly as the temperature inside is a constantly low 14
degrees C. Be warned that it can get quite crowded in
high summer. |
|
The highish admission charge is well worth it. From Nov
to Feb there are tours daily at 11.00, 15.00 and 16.00;
from March to Sept daily tours at 9.30, 11.00, 12.30,
15.00, 16.30 and 18.00 with continuous tours in Aug from
8.00 until 18.30. For information telephone +39 0732
97211 or fax: 0732 972001.
Even if you don't have time to see the caves, stop to
admire the splendid backdrop of the Frasassi Gorge and
the Romanesque church in the little spa of San Vittore
delle Chiuse (right by the cave ticket office and car
park). This tiny, perfectly square chiesetta was built
in the 12thC on chastely simple lines and is one of the
prettiest of its kind in the Marche. (To see inside ask
for the keys at the tobacconist's opposite.) |
 |
|