Velvet Cave

The Velvet Cave is believed to have originated in the eleventh or twelfth century. As a result of the marl extraction by quarry workers, an extensive labyrinth of tunnels was created. The marl was used as building material for the construction of, among other things, the Castle of Valkenburg (the castle ruins), which is connected to the cave. During the time of knights, the lords of the castle sought a secret exit here. These ‘escape routes’ were only rediscovered in 1937.
The Velvet Cave houses numerous secrets, impressive wall paintings, inscriptions, sculptures, and a romantic chapel dating from the French period (eighteenth century). During the revolution, the church could no longer be used, leading to a chapel being created in the cave. The pastor held mass here every Sunday and also used the chapel for baptisms. Since marlstone does not retain water, people had to bring their own water.
During World War II, the cave served as a shelter. During the liberation of Valkenburg in September 1944, heavy fighting took place. About 400 people sought refuge from this violence in the cave until they were liberated by the Allies on September 17, after six days and six nights. After that, the cave served for a time as a field hospital and resting place for (American) soldiers. The influence of this is still clearly visible in the cave.

Tourist Board South Limburg (Visit Zuid-Limburg)