Gorges de Baudinard, Natural canyon in Baudinard-sur-Verdon, France.
Gorges de Baudinard is a limestone canyon with tall rock walls creating a narrow passage carved by water over time. The gorge contains multiple caves, flowing water, and varied plant life adapted to rocky terrain.
Early humans inhabited these caves over 400,000 years ago, as confirmed by excavations beginning in 1958. The site shows evidence of settlement periods spanning different eras, with tombs and tools from ancient times.
A small chapel sits within the gorge and serves as a quiet meeting point for those exploring the area. The structure shows how communities have long marked important places in these landscapes.
The canyon can be explored by hiking on a trail with elevation changes or by paddling through the water with a canoe or kayak. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes for hiking and be prepared for uneven terrain and potentially wet conditions.
Within the gorge, painted caves display ancient red star patterns on white surfaces, created by people thousands of years ago. These markings rank among the oldest artistic expressions found at the site.
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