The Laboratory of Subterranean Biology focuses on the study of bio-spelaeology, (the study of underground life). It was founded in 1831, by the Austrian entomologist Count von Hohenwart, who discovered the first examples of cave insects in the caves of Postumia. Housed close to the youth hostel, the laboratory was originally housed in an old cave which had been used as an air-raid shelter during WWII. Above it are the grounds of the Villa Francescatti. This underground centre is dedicated to protecting the environment and with promoting speleological activity in the region.
