06 February 2024 | Nature
Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil, the prehistoric mysteries
Nestled among the green valleys and steep cliffs of Périgord Noir in the Dordogne, Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil is much more than just a picturesque village in rural France. It is a place steeped in history, where the secrets of humanity are revealed in the depths of its caves.
A prehistoric village
Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil is the cradle of prehistoric archaeology. The history of humanity is found in its caves, rock shelters and limestone cliffs. You can relive these ancient times by exploring the famous ornate caves, where prehistoric artists left their mark millennia ago. Among them, the legendary Lascaux cave which amazes visitors with its exceptionally preserved rock paintings, testifying to the artistic genius of our ancestors.
Museum of Prehistory
Immerse yourself in the heart of history at the National Museum of Prehistory. Its captivating exhibits feature unique artifacts, from stone tools to delicate ornaments, allowing visitors to understand the daily lives of the prehistoric men and women who populated the region. Careful reconstructions and recent archaeological discoveries offer a fascinating insight into our distant past.
Bernifal Cave
Located 6 km from Les Eyzies-de-Tayac, in the middle of the forest, the Bernifal cave is located in the town of Meyrals. In 1898, the cave was discovered after a partial collapse of the vault. The ancient natural entrance had been blocked for several millennia. In 1902, Denis Peyrony was the first to study the cavity. The Bernifal cave was classified as a Historic Monument in 1904. In total, there are currently 125 figures in the Bernifal cave, including 50 animal representations.
Walks in the heart of nature
Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil is also a paradise for nature lovers. Hiking trails wind through wooded valleys and along winding rivers, offering breathtaking panoramas of the unspoiled landscapes of the Périgord Noir. Outdoor enthusiasts can also canoe-kayak down the Vézère, discovering the region's hidden treasures from a unique perspective.
Discover Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil with its cobbled streets between centuries-old stone houses, while the shade of century-old oaks invites you to stroll. Local artisans display their creations in quaint shops, offering visitors the opportunity to take home a piece of Dordogne authenticity.