The Cro-Magnon shelter is the emblematic place of discovery, giving its name to the first modern man: Cro-Magnon man. (synonym of Homo sapiens). It was discovered in 1868 by Louis Lartet. The human skeletons were found under a slope formed by scree from the rocky escarpment above.
Why Cro-magnon? The word Cro derives from Occitan and means "hole", Magnon is of less well-defined origin: it could be a patronymic, or it could derive from the Latin magnus which means "big" - in this case, "the big cave".
It is in this place that you will be able to discover our common ancestor through a playful and interactive visit combining modern technologies (holograms, touch screens, immersive scenography) and a classical exhibition.
Newly fitted out according to the rules of art, the Cro-Magnon shelter is a monument classified as a World Heritage Site.
The visit continues in the middle of nature during a sound walk, to meet the animals of the prehistoric period.
The visit lasts from 1 to 1.5 hours. Photos are allowed.
The site of the Cro-Magnon shelter is partially accessible to people with reduced mobility. The entire museography and the discovery area are accessible. The outdoor route is not, as there are difficulties in accessing it with a wheelchair.
L’Abri Cro-Magnon was last modified: November 13th, 2022 by M Danielson
