The Grott (Raufels)

Descent / ascent past the rock via stairs, below a sensory bench to rest in the middle of the forest.

The "Grott" or the "Raufels"

Surprisingly and quite spectacularly, this bizarre gray limestone rock appears at the edge of the path in the geologically shaped area of the red sandstone. This striking rock formation was created in the same way as the Sudelfels near him. The highly calcareous and carbon dioxide-rich water of the higher-lying "Lehrborn", which comes from the Lower Muschelkalk, created highly porous calcite sediments over the course of many millennia Algae, mosses and higher plants emerged and continues to develop through encrustation of the plant parts a loose and porous tufa. The name "The Grott" can be traced back to a small stalactite cave (approx. 6 x 2.50 m), which here until the collapse of the Ceiling was admired in the thirties of the last century. Until recently, "Die Grott" was often the destination of processions of pious Gisinger citizens who expressed their concerns here in front of a statue of Our Lady. The name "Der Raufels" indicates the rough nature of the rock. This rock formation is designated as a natural monument and as such, please note and respect! Source: (geological and historical text parts after: Wolfgang Kremer, Gisingen)

The “Grott” or the “Raufels”

Surprisingly and quite spectacularly, this bizarre-looking gray limestone rock appears at the edge of the path in the geological environment characterized by red sandstone. This striking rock formation was created in the same way as the Sudelfels. The highly calcareous and carbon dioxide-rich water of the higher-lying "Lehrborn" coming from the Lower Muschelkalk created highly porous deposits of calcite over the course of many millennia. As a result of the pressure relief and heating of the water when the spring exits, the carbon dioxide escapes; the lime components form dense lime sinter. With the help of Algae, mosses and higher plants, a loose and porous limestone tuff was created and continues to be created by the encrustation of the plant parts. The name “The Grott” comes from a small stalactite cave (approx. 6 x 2.50 m), which was here until the collapse of the Ceiling could be admired in the 1930s. Until recently, "The Grott" was often the destination of processions of pious Gisingen citizens who presented their concerns here in front of a statue of the Mother of God. The name “Der Raufels” refers to the rough nature of the rock. This rock formation is designated as a natural monument and as such please note and respect it! Source: (geological and historical text parts based on: Wolfgang Kremer, Gisingen)