Lascaux is a cave complex in southwestern France, near Montignac, known for its prehistoric paintings, which date back approximately 17,000–22,000 years (early Magdalenian period). Discovered on September 12, 1940, by 18-year-old Marcel Ravidat and his friends, the cave contains around 6,000 figures, primarily depicting animals such as bulls, horses, and stags, with notable sections like the Hall of the Bulls. Opened to the public in 1948, it was closed in 1963 due to damage caused by visitors. Several replicas, including Lascaux II (1983), Lascaux III (2012, traveling exhibition), and Lascaux IV (2016), were created to preserve and share its art. The cave was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. The artwork demonstrates advanced artistic techniques, including perspective, which disappeared until the Renaissance.
If you’re curious, you can learn more about the Lascaux Cave on its Wikipedia page, or return to the photography article.