The Unicorn Cave (391 m above sea level), one of the largest karst caves in the Harz Mountains, is located near Scharzfeld.
The cave got its name from the bones found more than 400 years ago. Otto von Guericke reconstructed a unicorn from these bones in the 17th century. The bones of the unicorn were said to have healing powers and were therefore sold as medicine.
As early as the 18th century, it was recognized that these were fossil remains of large mammals, especially the cave bear, but not the legendary unicorn. The mythical creature, which never existed in the flesh, nevertheless gave the cave its name.
Interestingly, remains of Neanderthal stone tools have been found in the cave sediments.
We recommend taking part in a guided tour of the cave and then hiking from the cave to the Scharzfeld ruins HWN 151.
