Miles from the ocean, there's diving beneath the streets of Budapest
6 days ago
- #Cave Diving
- #Budapest
- #Thermal Springs
- Lukács Thermal Baths in Budapest are popular, with a hidden underwater cave system nearby.
- Molnár János Cave is one of the largest active thermal water caves in the world, stretching over 3.6 miles and plunging nearly 300 feet below the surface.
- The cave is accessible only to certified cave divers, featuring warm, crystal-clear water at around 27°C (80°F).
- Budapest's thermal waters have carved over 200 caves beneath the city over millennia.
- Molnár János Cave is still growing, with water rich in hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide dissolving the rock.
- The cave offers spacious chambers and gentle currents, unlike typical tight cave passages.
- Divers must follow strict guidelines to avoid disturbing the fragile environment and maintain visibility.
- The cave features mineral-streaked walls, crystals, and remnants of the ancient Pannonian Sea.
- The cave is not fully explored, with new passages discovered regularly by volunteer explorers.
- Researchers monitor the cave for pollution, with some contamination detected at known dripwater entry points.
- MJ Cave offers guided dives, including morning dives by reservation, with gear rental available on-site.