Macocha Gorge

The Macocha Gorge, an awe-inspiring natural wonder, stands as one of the most significant geological features in the Czech Republic. Located in the Moravian Karst region, this abyss plunges to a depth of 138.7 meters, making it the deepest of its kind in Central Europe. A part of the extensive Punkva Caves system, Macocha Gorge was formed by the collapse of a cave ceiling and is known for its breathtaking views and unique ecosystem.

Visitors to Macocha Gorge can marvel at the site from two observation platforms. The Upper Bridge offers a panoramic vista of the gorge's opening while the Lower Bridge, located near the bottom of the chasm, provides an up-close perspective of the sheer cliffs and the Punkva River flowing through the cave system below. The gorge is also accessible by a cable car, adding to the range of experiences available to tourists.

The name "Macocha" translates to "stepmother" in Czech, deriving from a local legend that tells of a cruel stepmother who attempted to dispose of her stepson by throwing him into the abyss. The boy survived, however, thanks to the intervention of supernatural beings, as the tale goes.

Apart from its mythical allure, Macocha Gorge is a gateway to the Punkva Caves, which can be explored by guided boat tours. These tours reveal an underground world of intricate rock formations, stalactites and stalagmites, and subterranean rivers. The caves are also home to a variety of bats and other cave-dwelling organisms, making it a site of interest for biologists and ecologists.