Grotte du Renne

Grotte du Renne is an archaeological cave site near Arcy-sur-Cure with 15 distinct layers spanning approximately 4 meters in depth. Each layer documents different phases of human occupation and is catalogued with Roman numerals from I to XV.

Excavations in the cave led to the discovery of approximately 76 Neanderthal fossils in layer X, dated to around 42,000 years ago. The finds also include Châtelperronian tools, which point to the transition period between Neanderthals and modern humans.

The cave shows traces of both Neanderthals and early modern humans, with layers containing bone tools, ivory pendants, and pierced animal teeth. These finds suggest that different human groups used the site over extended periods.

Access to the cave requires careful movement through narrow passages and varying levels, so reasonable physical preparation is helpful. The environment can be damp and cool, so appropriate clothing and shoes with good grip are recommended.

Scientists discovered a hip bone of a newborn displaying features neither typical of Neanderthals nor modern humans. This finding raises questions about possible interbreeding or an previously unknown population pattern.