Becelet Cave

Located near Stari Grad (Old Castle), Becelet Cave stands as a powerful reminder of the events that took place in Slovenia during World War II. In September 1942, at the end of the Rog Offensive, members of the Slovene Partisan Resistance (Osvobodilna fronta) sought refuge in the cave. However, they were betrayed, and the cave was soon surrounded by Italian forces, leading to a tragic outcome. While most of the activists eventually surrendered, Vinko Paderšič – Batreja refused to give in. He continued to resist until the end and, rather than be captured, used his final bullet on himself. He was later honoured as a national hero. The remaining captured activists were executed the following day.

Today, two plaques commemorate the events—one dedicated to the fallen resistance fighters, and another, placed by the Novo Mesto Caving Club, is in memory of Paderšič. The area around the cave has been arranged as a memorial park, with informational boards set up by the Otočec Local Community and the Association of Fighters for the Values ​​of the National Liberation War (Zveza borcev za vrednote NOB).

Today, Becelet Cave is not only a natural landmark, but above all, a part of rich historical heritage—a place that reminds visitors of the tragic events of the past and the courage of those who fought for freedom.