Castel Merle

Castel Merle is an archaeological complex stretching along about 400 meters of cliff faces, containing six prehistoric rock shelters positioned on two opposing rock walls. The site displays settlement layers from different time periods, allowing visitors to trace how early human living spaces evolved over millennia.

Neanderthals first settled in the rock shelters Abri Castanet and Blanchard roughly 85,000 years ago. Later, around 50,000 years after, modern humans arrived and occupied additional shelters, showing how this place was home to different human groups over vast stretches of time.

The artifacts found here reveal how people lived and expressed themselves: tools carved from mammoth ivory, decorated stones, and ornaments made from seashells and animal teeth show what mattered to them. These handcrafted objects tell stories of daily life in a world far older than ours.

The site is accessible during warmer months and offers guided tours along with activities showing how prehistoric people lived. Wear sturdy shoes and prepare for uneven ground, as the path follows the rock wall along the cliff.

One shelter named Abri Reverdit contains a preserved carving from the Magdalenian period showing horses and bison, officially protected since 1924. These engravings rank among the oldest known artistic expressions and offer insight into the creative world of these early people.

Location: Sergeac

Website: https://castel-merle.com

GPS coordinates: 45.00000,1.10100

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:03