Grotte chauvet 2 - Ardèche
About This Museum
Believe it or not, the masterpieces you'll see here are over 30,000 years old, twice as ancient as the Lascaux cave art. This isn't the original cavern—that's sealed for protection—but an astonishingly precise replica that lets you step directly into the world of our Paleolithic ancestors. You'll wander through a concrete-facaded structure cleverly designed to mimic the natural limestone cliffs of the region, feeling the cool, damp air and the same awe as if you were in the real thing. The sheer scale of the place is humbling, a sprawling complex built to house a perfect double of one of humanity's most significant artistic sites.
Collection Highlights
Prepare to be stopped in your tracks by a stunning frieze of lions hunting bison and the famous panel of thirteen cave bears, their massive forms seeming to emerge from the rock itself. One of the most magical sights is a wall with hand stencils, where someone pressed their palm against the stone and blew pigment around it—a direct, human connection across hundreds of centuries.
Visitor Information
Your journey inside lasts about an hour on a guided tour that feels more like an expedition; it's interactive and engaging without being gimmicky. Just remember to book ahead online, as spots fill up quickly, especially during summer.
Architecture & Building
From the outside, it's a sleek, modern building sheathed in raw concrete that echoes the surrounding cliffs, almost disappearing into the landscape until you get up close.
Contact & Location
Address: Route de Bourg Saint-Andéol, Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, Largentière, Ardèche, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France métropolitaine, 07150, France
Phone: +33 4 75 94 39 40
Website: Visit Website
