If you're looking for an unforgettable cultural experience surrounded by nature, here you can explore one of Europe's most important prehistoric sites: the Cave of El Pendo, located in Escobedo de Camargo in Cantabria.
From our inn it is approximately 26 kilometers, about a 25-minute drive.
A treasure recognized by UNESCO
Since 2008, the cave has been part of the World Heritage Site within the framework of the Altamira Cave and Paleolithic rock art complex of the Cantabrian coast. But its history and archaeological value go far beyond a distinction: El Pendo is a key place to understand the Paleolithic in the Iberian Peninsula.
An archaeological reference site
The cave has been excavated since the beginning of the 20th century. In 1907, Mayor of the River discovered engravings of the Lower Magdalenian, representing a bird and a possible horse. Decades later, archaeologist Jesús Carballo discovered an exceptional collection of portable art, including the famous perforated cane, one of the most notable pieces of European Paleolithic art.
In the 1950s, under the direction of Professor Martínez Santaolalla, new excavation campaigns were carried out, and in 1955, the cave was the site of the II International Course on Field Archaeology, consolidating its role as an academic epicenter in prehistoric studies.
The great discovery of rock art (1997)
Between 1994 and 2000, the archaeologists Ramón Montes and Juan Sanguino They resumed work on the oldest layers of the cave (Middle Paleolithic). It was in August 1997 when, almost by chance, they discovered a set of hidden cave paintings behind a crust of sediment.
These paintings, dating back some 20,000 years, are found on an impressive frieze decorated with iron oxide pigments. The figures include deer, a horse, a possible representation of an aurochs, a goat, and various abstract symbols. The techniques used were tamponade and spot ink, showing a amazing artistic mastery.
Location: El Churi neighborhood, 39609 Escobedo, Cantabria
For more information: https://cuevas.culturadecantabria.com/disponibilidad_centros/?centro=4/