Abri de la Madeleine: A Window into Magdalenian Culture

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Discover prehistoric life at Abri de la Madeleine, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Vézère Valley, France. Explore ancient art and Magdalenian culture.

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Abri de la Madeleine

Explore the Abri de la Madeleine, a significant archaeological site in France's Dordogne region. This rock shelter, inhabited during the Upper Paleolithic and Middle Ages, is the type site for the Magdalenian culture, showcasing ancient tools, art, and human history.

A brief summary to Abri de la Madeleine

Le Petit marzac, Route de la Madeleine, Tursac, 24620, FR
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Monday 9:30 am-8 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-8 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-8 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-8 pm
Friday 9:30 am-8 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-8 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-8 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Abri de la Madeleine.

Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience and more personalized attention during your visit.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain around the site can be uneven with trails to explore.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unique geological formations surrounding the landmark.
Check the local weather forecast before your visit, as rain can make the trails slippery.

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Getting There

Walking

From the village of Tursac, the Abri de la Madeleine is accessible by foot. Follow the D706 road towards Les Eyzies. After a short distance, turn onto the Route de la Madeleine, which leads directly to the site. The walk is approximately 1.5 kilometers and takes around 20-30 minutes. There are no specific costs associated with walking to the site.
Public Transport

The closest train station to Abri de la Madeleine is in Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil. From there, take the D706 towards Tursac. Then follow the directions as mentioned in the 'Walking' guidance. The bus fare from Les Eyzies to Tursac is approximately €2-€3. From the bus stop, it is a 20-30 minute walk to the site.
Driving

From Les Eyzies, follow the D47 and D706 towards Tursac. Then follow the directions as mentioned in the 'Walking' guidance. Parking is available near the site. Parking costs around €3-€5 per day. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season.

Discover more about Abri de la Madeleine

The Abri de la Madeleine, or Madeleine Shelter, is a remarkable archaeological site nestled near Tursac in the Dordogne département of southwestern France. This rock shelter, formed by an overhanging cliff, holds immense historical significance as the type site for the Magdalenian culture of the Upper Paleolithic. It also saw occupation during the Middle Ages.The site's name originates from the chapel of Sainte Madeleine, constructed above the rock shelter around 1350 during the Hundred Years' War. Excavations that began in 1863 by Édouard Lartet and Henry Christy revealed a wealth of artifacts, including tools made from bone, antler, and flint, as well as portable sculptures and decorated tools. Among the most famous finds is the "Bison Licking Insect Bite," a 20,000-year-old carving demonstrating exceptional artistic skill.Today, visitors can explore the Abri de la Madeleine and immerse themselves in prehistoric archaeology. The site features the remains of the 13th-century Petit-Marzac castle on the limestone plateau above the caves and a cave village. An audio guide is available in several languages, offering insights into the site's history and significance. The surrounding area offers opportunities for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the Vézère Valley. The Abri de la Madeleine was classified as a Monument historique in 1956 and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979.