Orgnac, prehistory underground
Designated Grand Site de France, the Aven d’Orgnac is made up of a sinkhole, a vast majestic underground network, and a museum rich in prehistoric artefacts from southern Ardeche. The history of this extraordinary space is equally about geology and mankind.
The story begins 100 million years ago with the formation of the first limestone rock and carries on to the discovery of the grotto by Robert de Joly in 1935 that allows us to explore this underground ‘cathedral’ today.
Between the two events come thousands of generations of our Paleolithic ancestors who lived in the area and left so many archaeological remains behind them, from the first flint tools dating back 350,000 years to the bronze tools made by the Neolithics. This rich heritage is on display at the ‘Cité de la Préhistoire’, a fascinating collection for all age groups.
The Aven d’Orgnac for families
Full of surprises
A tour of the Aven d’Orgnac is guaranteed to delight. Visitors explore with a qualified guide who leads you back in time on a journey that is adapted to all ages, enabling families to explore the underground world in complete safety. Bring your tribe along for an unforgettable experience.
Suggested activities
Choose from a number of family-friendly activities: cave exploration for young and old, demonstrations and technical workshops about prehistory, and even underground wine tasting! Spend time with experts who love to share their passion for the site with visitors and expand your knowledge inside the prehistory museum.
So many stories to tell
Experts from the Aven d’Orgnac team have carefully selected artefacts for the museum spanning the mid-Paleolithic era to the Bronze Age. Amongst the early tools and the jewellery, visitors will also discover the animals who lived in Ardeche alongside early Man.
Awarded Grand Site de France status
Awarded by the Ministry of Ecological Transition, this French distinction recognises an outstanding contribution to the preservation and sustainability of an exceptional natural site. The Aven d’Orgnac is currently the only cave to have this label, which was awarded in 2004.
Prepare and book my stay around the Aven d’Orgnac
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Activities around the Aven d’Orgnac
Fly over the Gorges de l’Ardèche with the aeroplane flying school
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Accommodation around the Aven d’Orgnac
Le Châtaigner 4 à 6 personnes – Village de Gîtes la Fontinelle
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Restaurants around the Aven d’Orgnac
What’s on ?
Must see, must do
Criminal investigation at the Museum – Cité de la Préhistoire Grand site de l’Aven d’Orgnac
Dégustation œnologique à 50 mètres sous terre et visite de la Grotte
Do you have to book tickets in advance?
Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak periods.
Is the Aven d’Orgnac accessible for very young children?
That depends on the child. There are 700 steps to go down, but a lift will bring you back to the surface.
How long does a visit last to the Aven d’Orgnac?
The guided tour is around one hour.
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