The replica was created using concrete frames covered with a layer of resin and painted with authentic mineral pigments.
Lascaux II opened in 1983, exactly 20 years after the original cave was closed to the general public.
The original cave was discovered by four local teenagers and their dog in 1940.
Artists spent over 10 years meticulously hand-painting the replica to match the exact placement of the original charcoal and ochre depictions.
The cave paintings are estimated to be from the Magdalenian period of the Upper Paleolithic era.
Lascaux II is the world's first full-scale replica of the original Lascaux cave, featuring meticulous reproductions of the Great Hall of the Bulls and the Painted Gallery. It was constructed 200 meters from the original cave to preserve the fragile microclimate of the authentic site, which was closed to the public in 1963. Artists and speleologists used the same mineral pigments and cave-wall textures to recreate the Paleolithic art dating back approximately 17,000 years. The site serves as a vital conservation tool, allowing visitors to experience prehistoric masterpieces without causing further decay to the fragile cave environment. The replica includes approximately 90 percent of the original cave's decorated surface area. It remains a global reference for the use of facsimile technology in archaeological heritage management.
The exterior entrance area and the surrounding woodland paths provide the best opportunities for photography, as cameras are banned inside.
Book your visit well in advance, as capacity is strictly limited to ensure a high-quality experience and cave preservation.
Wear layers, as the cave replica maintains a constant, cool temperature year-round regardless of the external weather.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Lascaux IV (International Centre for Cave Art) for a more comprehensive digital experience.
Do not attempt to visit without a pre-booked reservation, as walk-in spots are rarely available during the high season.
Operates seasonally; check for potential closures during the quiet winter months.
Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited inside the cave replica to protect the pigments and ensure visitor flow.
