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Rútshellir Cave Traditional Cache

Hidden : 8/19/2024
Difficulty:
2 out of 5
Terrain:
2.5 out of 5

Size: Size:   micro (micro)

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Geocache Description:


About Rútshellir

Rútshellir in mount Hrútafell is a protected cave with a newly renovated sheep pen attached in front of it. Said to be the largest man-made cave in Iceland, Rútshellir has two parts. The upper half contains an adjoining cave, which is so high that at one time, a 2nd floor was installed, making this a double-story cave. Further in, there is a ledge that was undoubtedly used for sleeping. In the ceiling, you will notice a carving of a cross that tells us that the cave dates from the time of Irish monks, before the Norse settlement. Many legends are connected to this cave.

Upwards of 200 man-made caves can be found on 90 farms in South Iceland, and 41 of them have been declared protected sites. They are virtually unknown elsewhere in the country there are many stories about Rútshellir. The main cave is straight and arched at least 20 meters long. It was used to store hay.

Rútshellir's remote location and fascinating history makes it a great off-the-beaten-path tourist destination. Be sure to explore the cave!

About the Cache

Since I live in the U.S., I would be unable to maintain this cache. Thankfully, chivi, a local Icelandic geocacher, has agreed to maintain the cache for me. Thank you, chivi!

The cache itself should be simple enough. You do have to enter the cave, but the find is very simple. Be sure to use the hint. Only a log sheet and pencil inside. Please rehide well and as found. Good luck!

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Tb vafvqr gur pnir. Gb lbhe yrsg, gurer vf nabgure fznyyre pnir jvgu n “jvaqbj.” Ybbx ba gur yrsg fvqr va gur ebpxf. Cyrnfr eruvqr jryy.

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)