Altamira Cave did not gain wide attention until the late 19th century, when Spanish jurist and amateur archaeologist Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola discovered striking images of bison painted on its ceiling.
In 1879, Sautuola began exploring areas near his home in northern Spain in search of prehistoric artifacts and fossils. During one of these searches, he brought along his young daughter, Maria Sanz de Sautuola. While Sautuola focused on the ground, hoping to find stone tools buried in the soil, Maria looked upward. Suddenly, she noticed large painted animals on the ceiling and shouted, “Bulls!”, revealing astounding artwork that had remained hidden for thousands of years.
The cave paintings consisted of vivid images of bison, horses, and other animals. Having seen similar engravings on Paleolithic objects displayed at the World Exposition in Paris the year before, he was convinced of their prehistoric origin. In 1880, he published a pamphlet describing the cave and included detailed drawings of the paintings.
Many experts, especially in France, rejected his claims. At the time, the prevailing view was that prehistoric humans lacked the intellectual ability to create sophisticated art. Some argued that the cave walls did not show smoke marks from ancient torches, which cast doubt on the paintings’ age.
Sautuola died before his discovery was fully recognized. In the following years, however, archaeologists uncovered similar prehistoric paintings across Europe, forcing Sautuola’s critics to admit their mistake.
Today, the Altamira cave paintings attract about 250,000 visitors each year. Although the original cave is closed to protect the fragile artwork, a carefully built replica allows visitors to experience the remarkable images without damaging the ancient paintings.
Hyundong Lee Staff Reporter teen/1774255567/1613367716
1. Who discovered the Altamira cave paintings?
2. What animals appear in the Altamira paintings?
3. Why did early experts doubt the discovery?
4. Why is the original cave closed today?
1. Why do ancient artworks still inspire curiosity?
2. Would you like visiting historical art sites?
3. Why should societies protect prehistoric art?
4. Can replicas help preserve cultural heritage?
Altamira Cave did not gain wide attention until the late 19th century, when Spanish jurist and amateur archaeologist Marcelino Sanz de Sautuola discovered striking images of bison painted on its ceiling.
