Abri des Harpons, Prehistoric rock shelter in Lespugue, France

The Abri des Harpons is a natural rock shelter at the base of a cliff, extending roughly 5 meters deep and situated above the Save River. The site contains multiple layers from different time periods filled with tools, weapons, and objects showing early craft traditions.

People inhabited this shelter during two main periods: first in the Solutrean era and later in the Magdalenian epoch, when hunting methods became more advanced. Archaeological excavations from 1912 to 1930 revealed these occupation layers and demonstrated how life evolved over generations.

The name comes from the flat harpoons of reindeer antler found in the upper Magdalenian layer, above barbed harpoons with one or two rows of barbs. Excavated by René de Saint-Périer from 1912, the shelter also yielded an oil lamp and Magdalenian eyed needles.

The shelter is located in a remote area and requires guided visits to protect the archaeological layers and research. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and expect rough ground conditions, as the entrance can be tight and the terrain uneven.

The Venus des Harpons is a female figure engraved on a reindeer antler baton, distinct from the famous Venus of Lespugue found in the nearby Rideaux cave. The site also yielded Magdalenian eyed needles and an oil lamp.