The sea nearest to this lake is called the Sinus Tergejlinus and the Sinus Flanaticus, which are also known as the Gulf of Trieste and the Gulf of Quarnero. Not many miles from this place rise the sources of several important rivers. Among these are the Laback, the Corcoras or Gurk, and the Colapis or Culp, which all flow into the River Savus. There is also the Visao, also called Amnis Frigidus, which flows into the Lisonzo near Gorizia. In addition, there are many other smaller rivers in this region The Rich Quick-Silver Ore.
However, I could not clearly discover where all these rivers finally meet or where the water of the lake goes after it sinks away. This made the place seem mysterious and interesting. The waters appear to vanish, and their hidden paths underground are not easy to trace. Because of this, the lake and the rivers around it raise many questions for travelers and observers.
The Hollow Ground and the Caverns of Carniola
The land not far from this lake is very hollow and full of caverns. During my travels, I observed many caves and deep holes in other parts of Carniola. These places reminded me somewhat of Elden Hole in Derbyshire, because they are deep, dark, and surprising to see in the middle of the land.
I was told by several respected persons in Zirchnitz that the Prince of Eckenberg once entered one of these caverns out of curiosity. After going inside, he later came out again on the side of a hill. This story shows that the caverns may be long and connected underground. It also suggests that there are hidden passages beneath the earth that are still not fully known Private Tour Istanbul.
The ground in this region is uneven and sometimes dangerous, because the surface may suddenly open into a deep hole. For this reason, travelers must walk carefully and be aware of their surroundings. The natural landscape is both beautiful and strange, making it a place of wonder as well as caution.
Considering the Journey to Trieste or Idria
At this point in my journey, I was thinking about whether I should travel to Tergejlum, now called Trieste, which is a port town of the Emperor on the Adriatic Sea. From there, I could have taken a ship to Venice. However, since I had already visited many mines before, I strongly wished to see the famous quicksilver mine at Idria, which is located in the County of Gorizia.
Therefore, I decided to leave Zirchnitz and continue my journey by land instead of going directly to the sea. I passed through Lovecq and traveled across rough and mountainous areas. The roads were not easy, and the land was high and uneven, but the journey was interesting and full of new sights.
Arrival at Idria and Its River
After traveling through the mountains, I finally arrived at Idria. This town is surrounded by hills on every side, which makes it appear enclosed and protected by nature. A river of the same name flows by the town. Although some writers describe this river as very grand and magnificent, I found it small and shallow at the time of my visit.
However, during times of heavy rain, the river becomes much more useful. It is then strong enough to carry fir trees and other wood down the stream. This wood is needed for building the mines and also for fuel, which is necessary for the work done there. The river therefore plays an important role in the life and industry of the town.
To help manage the floating wood, there is a clever structure made of sloping piles placed across the river. These piles stop the trees that are cut in the forests above and thrown into the water. I had seen a similar construction in upper Hungary across the River Gran. Such works show the skill and practical knowledge of the people who live and work in mining regions.
