We are planning a trip to Northern Spain and Southwest France. We would like to see some of the pre-historic cave paintings in the area but don't have time to see them all. Which ONE or at the most TWO are must see?
Posted by
Pensacola
9110 posts
Pech Merle.
Posted by
Chicago
2876 posts
Altamira Cave in northern Spain. You'll be looking at a full-size replica, because the actual cave is closed to the public - but the replica is laser-precise and extraordinarily well done. Altamira is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Posted by
Portland
3643 posts
One by one, those caves are being closed to tourists to protect the paintings. You might look into Grotte de Niaux, which is located about 40 miles from the France/Spain border, near the town of Foix. When we visited, several years ago, there were a very limited number of tours each day in English; so it's important to reserve ahead. Also, they allow only 20 people per tour. There was no lighting; you carry a lantern. There was also no paved path. Very atmospheric. After almost a km, you begin to see the paintings, which are in very good condition. We thought it was one of the best caves we've seen.
We've also been to Font-de-Gaume, Peche Merle, Lascaux II, and Altamira. Just my opinion, but I'd rather see the real thing than a reproduction.
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9371 posts
Tito Bustillo in Ribadesella, Spain is still own to the public, but the tours are in Spanish. It is free on Wednesdays.
Posted by
OP
Spokane Valley, WA
201 posts
Thanks everyone for the helpful information. Exactly what I was looking for.