Betalov spodmol (Cave Shelter)

The Betalov Spodmol cave shelter is one of the most important archaeological sites in Slovenia. 

The majority of finds date from various periods of the Palaeolithic (stone tools, fireplaces and the bones of animals hunted for food), although there is also proof of human presence from the Mesolithic (a deer's tooth with a hole bored through it that served as a pendant) and the Neolithic. 

Stone tools from the deepest layers of Betalov Spodmol are believed to be approximately 300,000 years old. Together with stone tools from the cave at Loza pri Orehku and the cave known as Risovec, both of which are likewise in the Pivka Basin, they represent the oldest proofs of human presence in Slovenia

Guided visits possible by arrangement. 

The remains of various animals have been found here, including the cave bear, the cave hyena, the giant deer (Megaloceros giganteus) and the Merck's rhinoceros (Stephanorhinus kirchbergensis). 

Finds from Betalov Spodmol are held by the National Museum of Slovenia and the Notranjska Museum Postojna.