The Cave of Pellumbas, or the Black Cave (Shpella e Zezë), is about an hour’s hike outside the village of Pellumbas, located 27 km southeast of Tirana. The cave itself is approximately 360 meters deep, and inside are impressive stalagmites and stalactites, as well as bats flying around the cave.

The inside of the cave is completely dark, with a single entrance. 40,000 years ago, the cave was a home to ancient cave bears. It was later used as a settlement for ancient humans during the Middle Paleolithic period.

During the World Wars, the cave was kept secret and used as a hiding spot for the villagers. In recent years, the cave has become a favorite day trip destination for both foreign and Albanian visitors.

Location & Geology

Pellumbas Cave, also known as the Black Cave (Shpella e Zezë or Shpella e Pëllumbasit), is a karst formation perched within Skorana Gorge on the slopes of Mount Dajti, approximately 500 m above sea level in Tirana County.

Despite the village being located about 20–27 km southeast of central Tirana, the hike to the cave is roughly 45 minutes to an hour long

Physical Dimensions

• Length: Approximately 360 m (1,180 ft); the show cave that visitors access is this length, though explorations beyond may extend further into the system

• Width & Height: Ranges from 10–15 m wide and 15–45 m tall

Prehistoric Human & Faunal Occupation

• Cave Bears: Fossils of Ursus spelaeus—the extinct cave bear—have been discovered in a main chamber called the “Chamber of Bears” (Sallë e Ari). These bears inhabited the cave during the Pleistocene, roughly between 400,000 and 10,000 years ago

• Human Habitation: Evidence of human activity dates back to the Middle Paleolithic—stone tools, hearths, and remains have been found, indicating that early humans used the cave perhaps around 40,000 years ago

Cultural and Recent History

• World Wars: Locals reportedly used the cave as a secret hideout during the world wars, leveraging its seclusion for protection

• Tourism Development: In recent years, the area has seen investment in sustainable tourism infrastructure thanks to collaboration between local communities and international funders (including USAID and Swedish partners). Facilities now include trail markers, a tourism office in Pellumbas village, gear rental, and guided tours

Visiting Today

• Hike & Access: Visitors typically drive from Tirana (about 45 minutes), then hike 2 km to reach the cave entrance—a scenic trail that traverses dramatic gorge landscapes above the Erzeni River

• Inside the Cave: Once inside, it’s completely dark beyond the entrance. You’ll encounter stalactites, stalagmites, and bats—a dramatic and immersive experience that usually lasts about 15–20 minutes

• Surroundings: The hike offers views of lush cliffs and the Erzeni canyon, which is also popular in summer for its refreshing natural pools and waterfalls

• Local Hospitality: After the hike, visitors can enjoy refreshing traditional Albanian meals or breakfast at local guesthouses or restaurants in Pellumbas village—some even rent flashlights or other hiking gear

 

This article is produced in the framework of the project #TiranaHeritageRoutes by DMO ALBANIA, a subgrant of the Boost Balkans program, implemented by ALDA Balkans, financed by AFD France.

Disclaimer: The views, opinions, and content expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Association for Local Democracy-ALDA and Agence Française de Développement (AFD). ALDA and AFD are not responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained therein.

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