Table of Contents
Who owns the Altamira museum?
The National Museum and Research Centre of Altamira is a state owned museum and it was created in 1979 for the conservation, study, dissemination and enjoyment of the knowledge it contains.
What is the importance of Altamira cave?
Altamira is vital for learning more about daily life in the Paleolithic Period. In terms of art history, the cave paintings executed during the late Magdalenian culture, which include the bison and deer, are of vital importance. They show a realism and sophistication that is unparalleled for the time.
How old is the cave of Altamira?
The Altamira cave is 971 feet (296 metres) long. In the vestibule numerous archaeological remains from two main Paleolithic occupations—the Solutrean (about 21,000 to 17,000 years ago) and the Magdalenian (about 17,000 to 11,000 years ago)—were found.
Can you visit the Altamira cave?
You can visit the museum part for free. This will give you access to the story of the Altamira cave and the cave art, as well as exhibits of finds from the caves in the area.
How many caves are in Altamira?
Seventeen decorated caves of the Paleolithic age were inscribed as an extension to the Altamira Cave, inscribed in 1985.
How was Altamira discovered?
The cave, discovered by a hunter in 1868, was visited in 1876 by Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola, a local nobleman. He returned in 1879 to excavate the floor of the cave’s entrance chamber, unearthing animal bones and stone tools.
Who discovered Altamira?
Modesto Cubillas
The cavity was discovered by a local man, Modesto Cubillas, around 1868. Accompanied by Cubillas, Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola visited the cave for the first time in 1875 and recognised some lines which at the time he did not consider to be the work of humans.
How many people visit the cave of Altamira?
Even with the original cave closed, the Altamira museum and its replica cave welcomed 250,000 people last year.
How old is Altamira?
Who lived in the Altamira cave?
18,500 years ago) and Lower Magdalenian (between c. 16,590 and 14,000 years ago). Both periods belong to the Paleolithic or Old Stone Age. In the two millennia between these two occupations, the cave was evidently inhabited only by wild animals.