Cave of Candamo

The Cave of Candamo is a limestone cave with multiple chambers whose walls display paintings and engravings of aurochs, horses, bison, and deer. The artwork dates across different periods of the Stone Age and shows varied artistic techniques and subject matter throughout the passages.

The artworks were created between 24,000 and 8,000 BC during the Stone Age, with different artistic phases showing the long use of the site. Scientists officially documented the cave in 1914, though local people had known about it since the late 1800s.

The cave served as a ritual space where early people created art rather than lived, with paintings reflecting their deep connection to the animals around them. The decorated chambers suggest this place held spiritual meaning for those who visited.

You can visit the cave during summer months and around Easter, though access is controlled and tours are done in small groups. Wear sturdy shoes and be ready for tight spaces and uneven ground throughout the passages.

A single horse painted in caramel tones occupies a raised position in the main chamber, standing out from other depictions. This placement may suggest the animal held special meaning for those who created the art.

Location: Candamu

Part of: Cave of Altamira and Paleolithic Cave Art of Northern Spain

GPS coordinates: 43.48571,-6.03693

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:08