Lascaux. That mystical place in France’s Dordogne region is known throughout the world. Despite being one of numerous caves in southwestern France and neighboring Spain that features prehistoric art—some older, some bigger—Lascaux gained an international reputation for the quality, diversity, color, and sheer size of its animal paintings. The tale of its discovery and its unique history since then have only added to the allure. Stumbled upon by a teenage boy and his dog in 1940 as France was embroiled in World War II, Lascaux opened to the public shortly after the war’s end. It eventually became clear that the constant visitors were taking a toll on the grotto and its treasures, forcing it to permanently close in 1963. It has only been accessible to a very restricted group, mainly scientists, since then—ushering in a new era for the Paleolithic phenomenon.

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