Fluweelengrot and Christmas magic

You might remember my recent post about Valkenburg. I mentioned that I wish to come back as I missed to see many important landmarks in the city. And guess what? This week I'm spending 3 days in Landgraaf which is around 20 minutes drive from Valkenburg, so today I drove there and explored the surroundings for several around.

One of the places that I visited today is Fluweelengrot (Velvet cave). It's not a cave like you would expect but it's a man made underground network of the castle. The cave dates back to the 11th or 12th century. It's a large labyrinth of old tunnels and frankly, it's impressive. You might wonder how it was created. I, personally, was very curious.

Above the cave are the ruins of the Valkenburg castle. This castle was constructed using marl which was dug up from the cave. This is how the system of tunnels was created.

During the World War II this labyrinth was used as a shelter for Jewish and local people hiding from German soldiers. It was also used by American troops. In liberation time the cave served as a protection against bombs. At that time 400 people spent here 6 days and 6 nights. There was time during the war when part of it was used as a field hospital, so as you can see these tunnels played a big role in the past.

Today, its role is completely different. It's normally empty and you can book a guided tour to learn about its history and purpose but during December it changes into Christmas wonderland. There are more than 100 stands selling various Christmas (or not so Christmas) things and the festive decoration is breathtaking. Let me show you how it looks like!

Even though the decoration and stands cover most of the walls and carvings there are still some artifacts from the war that can be seen today, such as this old altar.

During the war time people often prayed a lot and there are many carvings showing religious figures.

Afscheid means goodbye and this carving shows a girl saying goodbye to her love who had to fight for their country. Who knows if he ever came back to her...

I couldn't find what these two gentlemen did for Valkenburg but they have their memorial in the Velvet cave.

The cave is like a gallery. There are so many carvings!

And this is what the castle Valkenburg looked like 400 years ago. Over the centuries the castle has been besieged, destroyed and rebuilt. The last time when it was destroyed was in 1672 and after that it was left in decay. Today, it's only a ruin but it is still worth a visit.

Let's enjoy the Christmas decoration now.

I didn't know what to expect but I was in awe as soon as I entered the cave.

Look at those cute penguins!

I haven't seen so many colors in a long time.

Each passage was beautifully decorated. Wouldn't you like to find such an enormous presents under your Christmas tree?

Ho Ho Ho, Merry Christmas!

It looked like it was built in ice.

I liked some stands and I was even tempted to buy some Christmas goodies but my brain was stronger and as I really don't need anything I have only focused on the experience.

It was a piece of real ice, so you can imagine how cold it was inside.

This was so pretty!

I was standing here for a few minutes, admiring this beautiful work.

Santa getting back in the chimney!

Polar bears playing with snow balls...

And cool snowmen at the end...

I have never seen something like this and I am so happy that I could experience it. It made me feel warm and cozy inside.

Thank you for visiting!

Cheers!