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Lascaux Cave

France · Europe · ✦ UNESCO World Heritage Site
Prehistoric cave art at Lascaux Cave© EU · Public domain
Legendary

The undisputed Sistine Chapel of Prehistory — unrivalled in scope and artistry

Age
~17,000 yrs
Period
Magdalenian
Setting
Cave
Art form
Paintings
Discovered
1940
Status
Replica Only (Lascaux IV)
⧗ See it on the timeline

Among the most celebrated Paleolithic sites on Earth — the 'Sistine Chapel of Prehistory.' Over 600 painted and engraved animals fill its chambers. Closed to the public in 1963 after fungal and algae growth began destroying the irreplaceable paintings.

Gallery

Notable Features

  • ◦ Hall of the Bulls
  • ◦ Axial Painted Gallery
  • ◦ Shaft of the Dead Man
  • ◦ Chamber of Felines

Depicted Subjects

HorsesAurochsDeerBisonIbexRhinocerosBears

Plan a Visit

AccessThe original is closed — a faithful replica is open.
Sources & Further Reading
◈ Official site≡ Wikipedia✦ UNESCO listing➤ Directions
Hours & prices change — always confirm on the official site before travelling.
Photographs via Wikimedia Commons — image credits. Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.