Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère Valley
Unesco World Heritage

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Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère Valley

The Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère Valley, located in the Communes of Les Eyzies de Tayac, Tursac, Montignac-sur-Vézère, Saint-Leon-sur-Vézère, Marquay, Manaurie-Rouffignac, and Saint-Cirq-du Bugue, in the Department of the Dordogne, Region of Aquitaine, France, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This exceptional site is renowned for its outstanding collection of prehistoric cave art and archaeological remains, providing invaluable insights into the lives of our ancient ancestors.

History

The Vézère Valley has been inhabited by humans for over 400,000 years. The region's caves and shelters served as shelters for early humans during the Paleolithic era. The first evidence of human presence in the valley dates back to the Lower Paleolithic period, with the discovery of stone tools and animal remains.

During the Upper Paleolithic period, between 15,000 and 10,000 BCE, the valley became a hub of artistic expression. The caves in the region, such as Lascaux, Font-de-Gaume, and Rouffignac, are adorned with intricate paintings and engravings depicting animals, human figures, and abstract symbols. These prehistoric artworks provide a unique glimpse into the creative abilities and cultural practices of our ancient ancestors.

In 1979, the Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère Valley were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This recognition highlights the exceptional universal value of the site and its significance in understanding human history and cultural development.

Current State

Today, the Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère Valley continue to captivate visitors from around the world. The caves are carefully managed to ensure their preservation while allowing public access to experience these remarkable archaeological treasures.

One of the most famous caves in the valley is Lascaux, known for its stunning Paleolithic paintings. However, due to concerns about the preservation of the original cave, a replica known as Lascaux II was created and opened to the public in 1983. This replica faithfully reproduces the intricate artwork found in the original cave, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty and significance of the prehistoric art.

Other notable caves in the valley, such as Font-de-Gaume and Rouffignac, still offer visitors the opportunity to witness the original prehistoric art. These caves are carefully monitored and limited in the number of visitors allowed each day to ensure their preservation.

In addition to the caves, the Vézère Valley is home to numerous archaeological sites, including open-air settlements, rock shelters, and burial sites. These sites provide valuable insights into the daily lives, rituals, and cultural practices of our ancient ancestors.

The Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère Valley are not only a testament to the artistic achievements of early humans but also a crucial resource for understanding our shared human history. The site continues to inspire awe and wonder, inviting visitors to step back in time and connect with our ancient past.

Hotels and places to stay

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Domaine des Compouzines

Address
Distance: 0,8 mi
27, Compouzines Hautes
24290 Montignac
France

Time Information

Checkout: 10:00 - Checkin: 16:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

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Le Moulin de Mitou Relais du Silence

Address
Distance: 3,2 mi
Lieu Dit Borie
24290 Auriac du Perigord
France

Time Information

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Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

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Chateau la Fleunie

Address
Distance: 3,5 mi
route d'aubas
24570 Condat-sur-Vézère
France

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 7:30 - 23:00
Weekend: closed

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Hôtel du Parc

Address
Distance: 3,6 mi
Near Montignac
24290 Thonac
France

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

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Archambeau Logis

Address
Distance: 3,6 mi
Lieu Dit le Bourg
24290 Thonac
France

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Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

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Le Relais du Soleil d Or

Address
Distance: 0,6 mi
16, rue du 4 Septembre
24290 Montignac
France

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 16:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

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Videos from the area

Cardio-Boxe à Montignac (11)

Published: June 18, 2014
Length: 00:00 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Thomas KOTARSKI

Séance du 16 juin 2014 animé par Valérie. Pardon pour les séquences parfois floues, problèmes de mise au point dû à la musique.

lascaux - France - 2014

Published: November 07, 2014
Length: 47:17 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: mustafa otyakmaz

www.SAATON.com.

Lascaux 4 - Auer & Weber

Published: January 06, 2013
Length: 30:35 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: actuarchitecture

Le projet des architectes allemands Auer & Weber classé troisième par le jury. Découvrez le projet lauréat et les autres finalistes sur Actu-Architecture. Plus de détails ici : http://actu-arc...

Chantier du nouveau fac-similé de la grotte de Lascaux

Published: November 04, 2014
Length: 23:51 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Adrien Dorthe

Le 03 novembre 2014 Philippe Dorthe Conseiller régional d'Aquitaine en charge du patrimoine est allé visiter le chantier du fac-similé de la grotte de Lascaux, accompagné d'une équipe...

Montignac, in the heart of the Perigord Noir, cottage in the countryside with pool. Sleeps 8

Published: September 07, 2013
Length: 18:27 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: coinsecretrentals

This ancient stone barn has been renovated recently into a modern holiday cottage for 8 people with all comfort. The cottage is situated in the countryside, ...

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