Arte Sureño, Cave paintings in southern Cádiz and Málaga provinces, Spain
Arte Sureño comprises around 200 caves and rock shelters scattered across southern Cádiz and Málaga provinces, decorated with prehistoric paintings and engravings. The artwork on sandstone surfaces displays animal forms, birds, and human figures created by ancient artists thousands of years ago.
The oldest artworks date to the Upper Paleolithic period, with the Moro Cave in Tarifa containing horse engravings that represent some of the southernmost examples of this art form in Europe. Across several millennia, successive generations left their marks in these rock shelters, creating a long record of artistic activity.
These caves served as gathering places where communities performed rituals and ceremonies that held deep meaning for local peoples across many generations. The painted and carved images show which animals were important in the daily life and beliefs of those who lived here.
Access to many caves requires prior permission from the Environmental Office of Junta de Andalucía in Cádiz since most sites are protected. It is best to check ahead before visiting and avoid attempting to reach restricted areas on your own.
The Tajo de las Figuras cave contains representations of extinct bird species, including the Northern Bald Ibis that disappeared from this region centuries ago. These rare depictions provide valuable clues about the wildlife that once thrived in this area.
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