Rakov Škocjan is a 2.5 km long and 500 m wide karst valley at the northern foot of the Javorniki hills, between Cerknica plain and Planina plain. A watercourse Rak flows through it, originating in Zelška Caves on the eastern side and sinking in the Tkalca Cave on the western side of the valley. The valley formed in such a way that, due to the dissolution of limestone by water, the ceiling of the former underground gallery collapsed, and from the arch only the Big (37 m) and Small (42 m) natural bridges remain, which are today major natural monuments. Rakov Škocjan got its name from the church of St. Cantianus, the ruins of which are today visible near the Big Natural Bridge.
