FOUNTAIN-GUM CAVE
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Cave with polychrome paintings still open to the public in Aquitaine, inviting to admire engraved or painted bisons
Classified as a historical monument, this cave is the last one with polychrome paintings still open to the public in Aquitaine. It is therefore a jewel that must be deserved and enjoyed sparingly before it is too late. When Capitan, Breuil and Peyrony discovered in 1901 the aesthetic quality of these cave paintings, they brought a decisive testimony to the recognition of Paleolithic art. The cave was already known by the inhabitants of the region and was used as a playground for children. More than 200 animal figurations, painted or engraved, often polychrome, of bison, horses, mammoths and reindeer... These first great masterpieces of humanity have been listed in this 120 m long network: 84 bison are engraved or painted (often both) in color. This bestiary is spread over two stylistic periods of the Magdalenian. For specialists, it is one of the most beautiful Paleolithic sanctuaries in the world.
Tickets sold at the Font-de-Gaume Grotto reception hall on the day of the visit. Only one ticket sold per person present. For conservation reasons, the number of visitors admitted daily is very limited and subject to change each day. It is not possible to reserve a visit (except for visits adapted for the disabled). We strongly advise you to arrive before the ticket office opens during school vacations and in high season. Free parking. Animals are not allowed.
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Members' reviews on FOUNTAIN-GUM CAVE
Hors saison d'été, venir avant 8h00 du matin sur place pour pouvoir visiter dans la journée. Les places sont comptées et pas de réservation possible.
Mais l'attente est récompensée au vu de la beauté des peintures de bisons et des autres animaux représentés.