Cosquer Cave

Cosquer Cave

Cosquer Cave is located in a bay near Marseille, France. It was discovered in 1985 by professional diver Henri Cosquer, after whom the cave was named, causing an immediate sensation across France and Europe. Archaeological research suggests that due to the rise of the Mediterranean Sea during the Paleolithic period, the cave's entrance was located 37 meters below sea level, making it one of France’s major archaeological sites.

The cave was not opened to the public until 1991, as three divers lost their lives in the cave shortly after its discovery. Today, visitors can safely access Cosquer Cave via a 175-meter-long tunnel. Although the cave’s entrance lies deep underwater, many of its exquisite prehistoric paintings remain above the waterline. The cave contains dozens of paintings and engravings dating back to the late Paleolithic era. These artworks mark two distinct historical periods: earlier hand stencils and associated symbols from around 27,000 years ago, belonging to the Gravettian period; and more recent symbolic and animal paintings from about 19,000 years ago, from the Solutrean period.

Cosquer Cave

Must-visit reason: France’s most famous underwater cave

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: France[France]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Region [Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Region]

City where the attraction is located: Marseille [Marseille]