Dordogne and Lot Attractions
Cro-Magnon Skeleton © 120
Les Eyzies
In 1868 prehistoric skeletons were discovered in the
Vézère valley and the area was found to be one of the
richest in the world in ancient sites and deposits. The small
market town of Les Eyzies suddenly became the base for exploring
this treasure-trove of antiquity, including the many prehistoric
painted caves, the most famous and beautiful being at Lascaux,
which were discovered in 1940 by boys looking for their dog. The
paintings were executed about 30,000 years ago and depict wild
boar, deer and majestic bulls. Unfortunately visitors cannot view
the actual paintings because the caves have been closed to the
general public to prevent deterioration, but a replica gives you a
clear picture of the remarkable works. The town has some excellent
museums in which prehistoric art and artefacts are on display.
