What is the meaning of the Lascaux cave paintings?

Arguably the most convincing explanation for the cave paintings at Lascaux is that they were created as part of some spiritual ritual. According to analysis by the paleolithic scholar Leroi-Gourhan, Lascaux was a religious sanctuary used for initiation ceremonies.

Why was Lascaux closed 1963?

The Lascaux cave became a popular tourist site after World War II. But it had to be sealed off to the public in 1963 because the breath and sweat of visitors created carbon dioxide and humidity that would damage the paintings.

Why was Lascaux created?

Archaeologists believe that the cave was used over a long period of time as a center for hunting and religious rites.

How deep is the Lascaux cave?

It consists of a main cavern (some 66 feet [20 metres] wide and 16 feet [5 metres] high) and several steep galleries. Each is magnificently decorated with engraved, drawn, and painted figures, in all some 600 painted and drawn animals and symbols and nearly 1,500 engravings.

What is Lascaux II?

To allow the visitors to see the cave paintings anyway, an exact facsimile called Lascaux II (faux Lascaux or fake Lascaux), was built just 200 m from the original cave. In Lascaux II two galleries have been reproduced: the Chamber of Bulls and the central corridor . This two parts of the Lascaux cave show the most important paintings, about 40%.

Is Lascaux the most famous cave in France?

Of course, Lascaux is one of the most outstanding painted caves, but since the 1940s numerous other caves have been discovered, both older and younger. Such an elaborated work of art does not come into existence from one day to the other.

How many galleries have been reproduced in Lascaux?

In Lascaux II two galleries have been reproduced: the Chamber of Bulls and the central corridor . This two parts of the Lascaux cave show the most important paintings, about 40%.

Why was the replica of the Lascaux cave built?

This two parts of the Lascaux cave show the most important paintings, about 40%. The construction of the replica was a chance for scientists, to prove their knowledge how the paintings were made.