Cau del Duc, Archaeological cave in Torroella de Montgrí, Spain.
Cau del Duc is an archaeological cave near Torroella de Montgrí that extends about 20 meters into the mountainside. The ceiling reaches up to 6 meters in height, and from its location at 250 meters elevation one can see across the Empordà region.
The cave was inhabited by Homo heidelbergensis around 300,000 years ago, making it one of Catalonia's oldest human settlements. These early people used the shelter for protection and as a place to process their hunted animals.
The cave contains remains from hunting activities, with tools and bones from rabbits, goats, deer, horses, chamois, and bears visible to visitors. These objects show how people once fed themselves and what animals they pursued in this region.
To reach the cave, follow the road from Torroella de Montgrí toward Estartit and look for signs pointing to Montgrí Castle. Be aware that trail markers are sparse, so it helps to ask locals or prepare directions in advance.
The cave offered shelter from northern winds and provided early inhabitants with access to natural resources of that era. The landscape 300,000 years ago looked completely different, with lush vegetation and the Ter River delta much closer than it is today.
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