Altamira Cave
Spain · Europe · ✦ UNESCO World Heritage Site
Humanity's first recognised masterpiece; its polychrome ceiling has no equal
Age
~36,000 yrs
Period
Gravettian–Magdalenian
Setting
Cave
Art form
Paintings
Discovered
1868
Status
Replica Only (Neo-cave)
The first prehistoric cave art site ever recognized. Initially dismissed as forgeries when a young girl noticed painted bison on the ceiling in 1879, it is now accepted as humanity's earliest masterwork. The polychrome bison exploit the natural contours of the rock.
Gallery
Notable Features
- ◦ Great Polychrome Ceiling
- ◦ Horses Gallery
- ◦ Black Signs Panel
Depicted Subjects
BisonHorsesDeerWild BoarHand Prints
Plan a Visit
AccessThe original is closed — a faithful replica is open.
Sources & Further Reading
Hours & prices change — always confirm on the official site before travelling.
Photographs via Wikimedia Commons — image credits. Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.