Theory of the evolution of the Baradla Cave as mirrored in the geological evolution of its neighbourhood

Abstract

The Baradla Cave in Aggtelek has been studied for more than two centuries and over that period various theories have
emerged about the evolution of the cave. These theories describe each geological feature (e.g. rock structure, tectonics
etc) and the supposed events of the evolution (i.e. the relation between corrosion and erosion, the formation of battuecaptures etc). Furthermore, extensive geological and geomorphologic studies have also been carried out with respect to
the inner and the outer environment of the cave. In this present work an attempt has been made to summerize earlier
assumptions still regarded as valid and the results of the most recent research: in addition — and utilizing the experience
of the autors — a complex image of the conditions and processes of the formation of the cave system has been drawn.