Gorges de la Nesque, Natural canyon in Monieux, France
The Gorges de la Nesque is a deep limestone canyon carved between the villages of Villes-sur-Auzon and Monieux. Steep rock walls form a narrow passage that hikers traverse on marked trails through the gorge floor.
Humans have lived in this canyon for an extraordinarily long time, as archaeological findings reveal. Remains from Neanderthal settlements indicate that the area has been inhabited for tens of thousands of years.
The Saint-Michel Chapel from the 12th century sits built into the rock face, showing how earlier people used the canyon as a sacred space. Visitors can still see today how the structure blends with its natural surroundings.
A popular circular route departs from the church parking area in Monieux and winds through the canyon. Good footwear and water are essential, as the terrain is uneven and some sections involve narrow pathways.
Egyptian vultures and golden eagles nest in the canyon's limestone cliffs. The varying elevations and rock formations create different habitats that attract these rare birds of prey.
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