Lascaux Cave
Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Lascaux Cave, located near Montignac in the Dordogne region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France, is one of the most important Upper Paleolithic decorated caves in the world. Discovered in 1940, it contains an extensive collection of prehistoric paintings and engravings, primarily depicting animals such as aurochs, horses, and deer, dating back approximately 17,000 to 21,000 years. The cave is often called the 'Sistine Chapel of Prehistoric Art' due to the exceptional quality and scale of its parietal art. The original cave was opened to the public in 1948 but was closed in 1963 to prevent damage caused by carbon dioxide and fungal growth. To preserve the original artworks, Lascaux II, a replica, was opened in 1983, followed by a more complete and technologically advanced replica, Lascaux IV, in 2016. This modern interpretation offers visitors an immersive experience with interactive exhibits and guided tours that explore the history and significance of prehistoric art. Lascaux Cave is part of the Vézère Valley's UNESCO World Heritage prehistoric sites, highlighting its cultural and historical importance. The surrounding area of Montignac also offers medieval architecture, museums, and festivals, making it a rich cultural destination.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit Lascaux IV in the morning or afternoon with a guided tour to fully appreciate the cave's art and history. Tickets should be purchased in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Audioguides and various types of visits, including family-friendly and prestige options, are available. Consider combining your visit with nearby Vézère Valley prehistoric sites for a comprehensive exploration. Discounts are offered for combined tickets with Parc du Thot and other local heritage sites.
Interesting facts
- •Lascaux Cave is often called the 'Sistine Chapel of Prehistoric Art' due to its extraordinary wall paintings.
- •The cave art primarily depicts large animals known from the region during the Upper Paleolithic period, such as aurochs, horses, and deer.
- •The original cave was closed to the public in 1963 to prevent damage caused by carbon dioxide and fungal infections.
- •Lascaux IV, opened in 2016, is a highly accurate, full-scale replica of the original cave, integrating new technologies for an immersive visitor experience.
- •The Vézère Valley, where Lascaux is located, contains numerous other important prehistoric sites and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
History
Lascaux Cave was discovered in September 1940 by Marcel Ravidat and his friends near Montignac.
The cave's paintings are attributed mainly to the Magdalenian period of the Upper Paleolithic, around 21,000 years ago.
Opened to the public in 1948, the cave suffered damage from environmental changes caused by visitors, leading to its closure in 1963.
Since then, exact replicas have been created to allow public access without harming the original art.
The site was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, alongside other prehistoric sites in the Vézère Valley, recognizing its outstanding universal value.
Place Guide
Original Lascaux Cavec. 17,000-21,000 years ago
The site of the original prehistoric cave paintings, closed to the public to preserve the delicate artworks. It contains some of the finest examples of Upper Paleolithic parietal art.
Lascaux II Replica1983
Opened in 1983, this was the first replica of the original cave, allowing visitors to experience the art without damaging the original site.
Lascaux IV - International Centre for Cave Art2016
A modern, full-scale facsimile of the entire original cave opened in 2016, featuring interactive exhibits, guided tours, and advanced multimedia technology to enhance visitor engagement.
Contact
Phone: 05 53 50 99 10
