Park and Heritage
Discover the Secrets of Divje Babe Archaeological Park
Divje Babe Archaeological Park
Divje Babe Archaeological Park is located in the varied landscape of the Idrija–Cerkno hills in western Slovenia and is considered one of the most important Paleolithic sites in the world. In a steep, rocky slope descending from the Šebrelje Plateau into the Idrijca River valley lies a cave that has revealed remains of over 60 animal species, stone and bone tools, and traces of Ice Age human activity. These finds demonstrate a long and complex human presence in this area and highlight the exceptional importance of the site on both a European and global scale.
Divje Babe I is a cave site from the Middle Paleolithic (Mousterian) and the beginning of the Upper Paleolithic (Aurignacian) periods. The excavated archaeological layers are between 35,000 and 116,000 years old, with the youngest layers dating to the time of the last Neanderthals and the first anatomically modern humans. It is within these layers that the most famous discovery of the park was made — the Neanderthal flute, which fundamentally changed our understanding of Neanderthal cognitive and cultural development.
Cultural Monument of National Importance
In December 2025, Divje Babe Archaeological Park was declared a cultural monument of national importance by the Republic of Slovenia on the initiative of the Ministry of Culture. This official designation confirms the exceptional significance of the site and strengthens its role as one of the most valuable Paleolithic sites in Europe. It also coincides with the 30th anniversary of the discovery of the Neanderthal flute — the world’s oldest known musical instrument. The designation ensures the highest level of protection and supports long-term, sustainable management of the area.
Access to the interior of Divje Babe Cave is therefore possible exclusively as part of guided tours and under professional supervision, in line with conservation and environmental protection guidelines. This approach ensures the preservation of the archaeological site while providing a safe and high-quality visitor experience.
VISIT CERKNO
