La Ferrassie
Cave Prehistoric site with important Neanderthal fossil finds
Palaeolithic shelter in Dordogne known for Neanderthal remains and long archaeological study; visited by students, researchers and tourists interested in prehistoric excavations and local museum displays.
La Ferrassie is a Paleolithic rock-shelter site in the Dordogne region of southwestern France, notable for yielding multiple Neanderthal skeletons and rich Middle Paleolithic deposits.
The site is significant for its human remains and stratified archaeological layers that have contributed to study of Neanderthal anatomy and burial practices; it is often referenced in syntheses of European Middle Paleolithic archaeology. The shelter itself is a discrete rock overhang with archaeological exposures rather than a large visitor complex.
Excavations at La Ferrassie during the late 19th and early 20th centuries produced several nearly complete Neanderthal skeletons and a long sequence of Middle Paleolithic artifacts, establishing the site’s importance for understanding Neanderthal populations in western Europe. Finds from the site have been central to debates over Neanderthal behaviour and burial.
La Ferrassie lies in the Vézère valley area of Dordogne in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, within a landscape rich in Paleolithic sites and rock shelters that together form a major concentration of prehistoric archaeology in southwestern France.
- Important Neanderthal finds: Several nearly complete Neanderthal skeletons and multiple burial contexts were recovered from the shelter, making it a key reference site for Middle Paleolithic human remains in western Europe.
How to Get to La Ferrassie #
By car from Les Eyzies-de-Tayac (approx. 5-10 minutes). Regional buses serve Les Eyzies; from there local signage and short walks lead to excavation areas and viewpoints. Check the Les Eyzies tourist office for guided-visit arrangements.
Tips for Visiting La Ferrassie #
- Combine a visit with Le Moustier and other Dordogne paleolithic sites in one day - the density of Paleolithic finds in the Vézère valley is the real attraction.
- Check opening/visit rules with the local tourist office in Les Eyzies; some sites are fenced and view-only to protect the stratigraphy.
- Wear a hat and sturdy shoes: the valley trails can be steep and muddy after rain.
Best Time to Visit La Ferrassie #
Best in late spring through early autumn for trail access and adjacent museum openings.
Weather & Climate near La Ferrassie #
La Ferrassie's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 2°C to 26°C. Moderate rainfall (955 mm/year).
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 9°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (87 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 3°C. Regular rainfall (83 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (81 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 10°C. Regular rainfall (86 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 26°C and lows of 15°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is the warmest month with highs of 26°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 12°C. Regular rainfall (82 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (91 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 5°C. The wettest month with 96 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 3°C. The wettest month with 96 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
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