Prehistoric Walk

Prehistoric Walk

Toured the “Grottes de Cougnac”, prehistoric caves this morning (Monday, 7^th May 2012)

“As much for its geological importance as for its beauty, as much for its beauty as for its testimony of Paleolithic art, Cougnac is one of the most moving caves I know”… by Andre Leroi-Gourhan (excerpt from Les Grottes Magiques).

The caves were discovered in 1949 – 1952.  These caves contain one of the greatest collections of concretions; thousands of stalactites hang from the ceilings and stalagmites are growing from the floor.

In the painted caves ( no picture taking was allowed ) , 302 motifs have been listed and recorded; comprising of 274 signs, 22 animals, 4 human beings, 1 rubbed hand and 1 unidentified motif., many carbon dated to 14/15,000  years ago. These photos are of the walk to the painted caves and the entrance door.

On the drive around the lake we discovered these poppies growing on the roadside.

 

Lunch today was lakeside at “La Table du Marais” in the small village of Grolejac. We sat outside in the sunshine to eat our lunch; John especially enjoyed his “Mexican Hamburger”.