Decorated Cave of Pont d’Arc, known as Grotte Chauvet-Pont d’Arc, Ardèche

Decorated Cave of Pont d’Arc, also known as Grotte Chauvet-Pont d’Arc, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Ardèche region of France. The cave contains some of the oldest known cave paintings in the world, dating back over 30,000 years. The paintings depict a variety of animals, including horses, lions, and rhinoceroses, as well as human handprints and abstract designs. The cave was discovered in 1994 and has since been closed to the public to preserve the delicate artwork. However, a replica of the cave, called the Chauvet-Pont d’Arc Cave Replica, has been opened nearby for visitors to experience the beauty and history of the original cave. The replica is a faithful reproduction of the cave, complete with the same paintings and rock formations, and offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and witness the artistry of our ancient ancestors.