Also known as Spoulga d'Ornolac, the Bethlehem Cave, located just a few minutes (1.1 km) from the Ariège Evasion campsite, has inspired fascination and curiosity for centuries. Hardly a day goes by without someone coming to the campsite reception, often from all corners of the world, to ask us for directions to the Bethlehem Cave, sometimes seeking a geological curiosity and other times a genuine spiritual quest. Historical accounts attest to its fortification in the 12th and 13th centuries; it is said to have served as a refuge for the Cathars after the fall of Montségur. It is a cave with two entrances, consisting of a 50-meter-long corridor. It is a fortified cave, hence the name spoulga (in the old toponymy of southwestern France, designating a cave with a military character): both ends are blocked by walls.
Many myths and other legends surround this place, what is certain is that his visit will not leave you indifferent and that you will feel the spiritual charge of the place and of all the generations which have succeeded it.
Grotte access plan from the campsite:
Useful links:
The Cathar history of the cave by "Cathar Lands"
