description Grotte de Rouffignac Overview
The Grotte de Rouffignac, located in the Dordogne department of southwestern France, is a large karst cave containing over 250 prehistoric engravings and drawings. The cave is particularly noted for its depictions of mammoths—over 150 mammoth figures have been documented—earning it the informal designation 'Cave of the Hundred Mammoths.' The artwork dates to the Upper Paleolithic period and also includes representations of horses, bison, and rhinoceroses. Unlike many decorated caves in the region, Rouffignac is open to public visitation via electric train tours.
help Grotte de Rouffignac FAQ
Where is the Grotte de Rouffignac located?
The Grotte de Rouffignac is a massive karst cave system located in the Dordogne department of southwestern France. It sits within the historic Périgord region, which is famous for its high density of prehistoric sites.
What prehistoric art makes the Grotte de Rouffignac famous?
The cave is renowned for containing over 250 prehistoric engravings and drawings created during the Upper Paleolithic period. It is most famous for its numerous, detailed depictions of mammoths, leading to its nickname 'The Cave of 100 Mammoths.'
How do tourists view the prehistoric art inside the Grotte de Rouffignac?
Because the cave system is unusually large and extends for several kilometers, visitors tour the cave aboard an electric train. This train takes visitors deep into the dark underground passages to view the mammoth and rhinoceros engravings on the walls.
Are the prehistoric drawings in the Grotte de Rouffignac authentic?
Yes, unlike some other tourist sites with replicated art, the prehistoric engravings inside the Grotte de Rouffignac are the authentic, original creations of ancient humans. The cave's remote, deep chambers helped naturally preserve the fragile drawings for thousands of years.
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