This imposing ice pillar stood in the “ice cathedral” during the winter of 2023/2024.
The pillar was reflected in the dark water of a small stream that flowed through the cave. As the winter progressed, the water began to freeze, and the cave gradually sealed itself beneath increasingly thick layers of ice. As the ice closed in, we were able to venture further inside and observe the structure of the cave more closely.
Ice pillars in glacier caves form from meltwater droplets that freeze upon contact with cold air or frozen ground. They grow slowly, either from the bottom up or from the ceiling downward, and sometimes both ends meet to form a continuous column. Airflow, prolonged cold, and regular dripping are the ideal conditions for these natural sculptures.
In another photo from this exhibition, Ice Pillar Base, the base of this pillar is visible, photographed on a different day, showing the distinctive shape of its lower part.
