Isturitz and Oxocelhaya caves, Prehistoric cave system in Lower Navarre, France
Isturitz and Oxocelhaya are two caves carved by an underground stream in limestone, forming different levels within the rock. The upper cave Isturitz is regularly visited, while Oxocelhaya sits below it, and together they create an impressive underground system.
People occupied these caves between 80,000 and 10,000 years ago. Excavations began in 1913 and revealed that various groups, including Neanderthals, lived there over long periods.
The caves show how people lived thousands of years ago and what mattered to them. Artworks like bone flutes and animal engravings on the walls tell stories of their daily life and their skills.
Visitors can explore the upper Isturitz cave on guided tours that explain the archaeological discoveries. The lower cave is more difficult to access and requires special equipment.
Archaeologists found skull bones from about 15,000 years ago that inhabitants intentionally transformed into drinking vessels. These discoveries show that people there had ritual practices connected to the deceased.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
