Cave of Niaux

Niaux, France

The Cave of Niaux contains many prehistoric paintings of superior quality from the Magdalenian period. It is one of the most famous decorated prehistoric caves in Europe still open to the public. The paintings had been emerging on the cave walls during a long period between 11500 and 10500 years BC. From the very beginning of the seventeenth century the cave was of great interest for tourists, who left numerous traces on its walls.

Though its vast opening (55 metres high) which opens at an altitude of 678 metres, the Niaux cave extends for more than 2 kilometres. The guided tour of the Salon Noir, 800 metres from the entrance, will reveal to you more than 70 exceptional prehistoric paintings.

Address

Les Baousses, Niaux, France

See all sites in Niaux

Details

Founded: 11500 BC
Category: Prehistoric and archaeological sites in France
Historical period: Prehistoric Age (France)

More Information

www.bradshawfoundation.com
www.grottes-en-france.com

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

Interesting Sites Nearby

Château de Miglos (2,5 km)

Mirepoix Cathedral (37,6 km)
Château de Foix (16,3 km)
Saint-Lizier Cathedrals (42,3 km)
Château de Montségur (20,4 km)
Rieux Cathedral (58,2 km)
Camon Village (37,9 km)
Château de Puivert (39,3 km)
Château de Lordat (13,5 km)
Pamiers Cathedral (32,8 km)

User Reviews

Leon Lange (3 years ago)
Absolutely brilliant gallery and experience.

Chiara Bertolo (3 years ago)
Nice experience

Dari Razu (3 years ago)
One of the most astonishing caves with its amazing art!

Jeroen Brans (4 years ago)
It's mostly about the prehistoric paintings. The cave itself is hardly remarkable. Worth the visit though. The paintings are quite detailed and show artistic insight and craftmanship of the prehistoric artist.

Andrew Brooke (5 years ago)
Excellent guide and well worth the trip. Amazingly well preserved cave paintings. One of our highlights of our time in the region.

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Andy Hay

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