description Grotte de Lascaux Overview
The Grotte de Lascaux is a cave system near Montignac, France, renowned for its exceptional Paleolithic cave art. Over six hundred paintings depicting animals like bulls and horses adorn the limestone walls. These artworks, dating back approximately 17,000 years, are among the oldest known examples of human artistic expression. The site, recognized by UNESCO, provides invaluable insight into the lives and beliefs of early humans and is studied by archaeologists and art historians.
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When was the Lascaux cave system discovered?
The cave was famously discovered on September 12, 1940, by four local French teenagers near the village of Montignac. Their dog, Robot, reportedly fell into a hole that led the boys to the entrance of the historic cave system.
Why is the original Grotte de Lascaux closed to the public?
The cave was opened to tourists after World War II, but the heat, humidity, and carbon dioxide from visitors quickly caused mold and lichen to grow over the paintings. To preserve the fragile Paleolithic art, the French government permanently closed the original cave in 1963.
Where can tourists see the Lascaux cave paintings today?
Visitors can view highly accurate reproductions at Lascaux II, Lascaux III, and Lascaux IV, which are located near the original site in Montignac, France. Lascaux IV, opened in 2016, is a full-scale, high-tech replica of the entire cave system.
How old are the paintings found in the Grotte de Lascaux?
The remarkable paintings of bulls, horses, and stags are estimated to be approximately 17,000 years old. They were created by early human artists during the Upper Paleolithic period using natural mineral pigments like ochre and manganese.
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